Brighton College Dubai has seen a significant boost in happiness levels and reading scores after running a three-year program to limit screen time. The headmaster, Simon Crane, shared that the school has been keeping a closer watch on screen usage for a while now.
“In the past two years, happiness levels have gone up by 15%,” he said. “We’ve also noticed students staying more focused and achieving higher grades. Our reading scores have shown improvement since we started limiting screen time.”
Steps to Reduce Screen Time
Brighton College Dubai has taken various measures, such as banning mobile phones during school hours, reducing screen usage, and introducing a digital literacy program.
“Phones are banned until the sixth form,” Simon explained. “We avoid using screens for creative subjects like PE, art, drama, and music. For Math and Science, screens are used only when necessary, not as the default teaching method.”
Another Dubai-based institution, Little Wonders Nursery, has a completely screen-free policy for all children. Assistant manager Fathimathul Rishada explained, “Whether it’s a 4-hour program or a full-day schedule, every child spends their time entirely screen-free.
Their day is filled with meaningful activities like playing, learning, and interacting with peers. It’s incredible to see how they naturally connect and grow through real-world experiences.”
Delaying Screen Introduction
Simon strongly supports delaying the use of screens for young children. “Once you introduce screens, they become a permanent part of life. We believe in reinstating traditional teaching methods,” he said.
Rishada agreed, pointing out how overexposure to screens can harm a child’s development. “Screens limit children’s ability to engage in crucial activities that encourage growth. This is especially true during the critical early years, when children need to socialise, explore, and develop essential skills.”
Screen Addiction in Young Children
Dr. C. B. Binu, a Dubai-based psychiatrist, shared a case involving a 2-year-old girl with screen addiction. The parents noticed she would suddenly fall backward, hitting her head on the ground. After extensive medical tests revealed no physical issues, the cause was identified as screen addiction.
“The mother admitted she had introduced screens to her child before she turned one to keep her occupied,” Dr. Binu explained. “The child became so used to screen stimulation that her brain struggled to cope when it was removed.
Falling backward seemed to be her way of adjusting to the absence of screens. With the right intervention, we were able to resolve the issue.”
Encouraging Healthy Digital Habits
Simon emphasized the importance of changing how children interact with screens as they grow older. “As children age, we gradually loosen restrictions and teach them about digital safety. We also encourage students to track their screen time weekly to understand and manage their usage better.”
This approach is helping schools in Dubai redefine how children interact with technology, promoting healthier and more balanced lifestyles.
