Young children have a natural need to identify with familiar figures in their surroundings. You may wonder—what does that have to do with the negative impact of cartoons on a child? In the struggle for survival, where both parents are often required to work, the care of children is handed over to older family members or preschool institutions. As a result, children are increasingly exposed to television and channels that broadcast cartoons. In the absence of attention from parents or another adult, the child is left to themselves and begins to identify with cartoon characters.
Today’s fast-paced lifestyle in big cities causes a lack of free time and an overload of responsibilities. Parents often don’t have time to devote to their children, even though they are consciously concerned about what their child watches on TV. Many parents are worried about children’s programming broadcast on national television.
Modern cartoons often lack educational value—or if they do have it, it is minimal—and are filled with violence, unrealistic situations, and characters that negatively affect a child’s development and psyche. Research has shown that 86% of cartoons contain aggressive content, which can lead to violent and aggressive behavior in children. Scientists who have studied this topic have found alarming data: watching cartoons for more than 3 hours a day has a negative effect on brain development, which is especially dangerous during the first seven years of life, a critical period for brain growth. In the same study, 90% of parents in an anonymous survey expressed concern about the type of content targeted at young children. These types of shows can even shape a child’s perception of the world and how it functions.
Have you ever wondered why your child can’t fall asleep after watching a cartoon? Cartoons can negatively affect sleep. A child might dream about the characters and find themselves in the role of a hero, all while experiencing stress. They may wake up crying, unable to explain what happened—because it all occurs in the subconscious.
Often, characters in cartoons are rewarded for violent behavior, for harming others, or for making fun of others—without regard for anyone’s feelings. If a child identifies with such characters, they may easily accept that kind of behavior, and it is rare for a child to criticize or reject the actions of their favorite hero.
So, dear parents, make an effort to ensure your children spend more time with their peers, in the fresh air, and engaged in healthy play that promotes their psychophysical development, creativity, tolerance, social interaction, empathy, and love for nature and a healthy lifestyle. Give them a carefree childhood, and when they eventually leave your side and become independent, they will be grateful that you let them:
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play in the mud and sand,
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gaze at the sky,
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count stars,
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draw with chalk on the sidewalk,
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swing on swings,
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cuddle with pets,
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kick a ball —
instead of sitting in front of a screen and missing the most beautiful time of their life.
When choosing a preschool for your child, always opt for one that does not include cartoon watching as a regular activity in their program. That way, you will be doing your child a favor by giving them the chance to enjoy real play.