Pediatricians Warn of Excessive Screen Time and E‑Scooter Risks for Kids

Dr. Denis Baš, a pediatric specialist with Slovenia's National Institute of Public Health (NIJZ), warned that the rapid rise in children's use of smartphones, tablets, computers and gaming consoles is linked to developmental issues. He noted problems such as short attention spans, difficulty concentrating, impaired eye contact, and reduced social skills, adding that “children who are overly exposed to screens early have poorer results on developmental tests and more difficulties later in school.” Baš emphasized that the amount of time spent in front of screens, as well as the quality of content, should be limited, and that outdoor activity, sleep and face‑to‑face interaction remain essential.

In Serbia, pediatrician Dr. Gordana Stanković raised similar concerns about electric scooters, saying they can replace walking, running and cycling, thereby hindering motor‑skill development and overall physical health. She stated, “Children do not need electric scooters; they need to move their bodies.” Stanković urged parents to avoid providing such devices and to encourage spontaneous play and movement instead of passive, device‑driven activities.