Kolkata, (West Bengal) [India], 31st January 2025: A K Ghosh Memorial School organized a special workshop for parents of Class VI students to address concerns about children’s mental health and digital wellbeing. The session aimed to raise awareness about the effects of excessive screen time and help parents understand how digital habits impact their children’s emotional and cognitive development.
The workshop was designed as an orientation program for students moving from the junior section to secondary school. The school administration recognized the need to educate parents about the importance of mental health, which is often not openly discussed in many families.
Raising Awareness on Mental Health
Speaking about the initiative, Principal Mr. Tuhin Kumar Guha emphasized the importance of mental health in modern parenting:
“Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet it is often ignored. Parents need to understand how digital habits affect their children’s well-being. This workshop was organized to provide practical guidance to parents on maintaining a healthy balance in their children’s digital consumption.”
Effects of Excessive Screen Time
Clinical psychologists Dr. Surabhi Ghosh and Ms. Arpita Roy Choudhury led the session, explaining the negative effects of too much screen time, including:
-Shorter Attention Span – Too much exposure to screens can reduce focus on studies and real-life interactions.
– Irritability & Mood Swings – Extended digital use can increase frustration and emotional imbalance.
– Sleep Problems – Blue light from screens disrupts sleep, leading to fatigue and lower productivity.
– Social Isolation – Children spending more time online interact less with family and friends.
– Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) – Social media pressure can cause anxiety and insecurity.
– Body Image & Self-Esteem Issues – Unrealistic online content can make children feel dissatisfied with themselves.
– Privacy & Cyberbullying Risks – Children may unknowingly share personal details online, making them vulnerable to cyber threats.
Tips for Parents
The experts shared simple yet effective ways for parents to guide their children toward responsible digital use:
– Set screen time limits to ensure a balanced routine.
– Encourage outdoor play and creative hobbies to reduce screen dependence.
– Keep an open conversation with children about their digital experiences.
– Create screen-free zones at home, especially in bedrooms and dining areas.
– Monitor online content to protect children from harmful material.
– Teach children to handle cyberbullying, including reporting and blocking bullies.
Positive Parent Feedback
Parents found the session highly informative and practical. A working mother shared, “I now have useful strategies to set screen limits without making my child feel restricted.” Another parent said, “This workshop helped me understand the link between digital habits and mental health. I feel more confident in guiding my child.”
School’s Commitment to Mental Health
The school plans to hold more such sessions in the future for parents, students, and teachers. Principal Mr. Tuhin Kumar Guha stated, “This is just the beginning. We will continue organizing discussions on mental health and digital wellness to support both parents and students.”
A K Ghosh Memorial School, in collaboration with Zenscape Care, remains committed to creating a healthier digital future for children by raising awareness and providing guidance on responsible technology use.
Website: https://www.zenscapecare.com/
