In Colombia, the screen time of children and adolescents has become a growing concern for parents, educators, and health authorities. Recent studies reveal that minors spend more than eight hours a day in front of electronic devices — mainly smartphones — a figure that in some cases exceeds nine hours daily.
This phenomenon reflects a profound shift in digital consumption habits and poses serious challenges in terms of physical, mental, and social well-being.
According to data from the Communications Regulation Commission (CRC) and organizations that analyze digital consumption, smartphones have become the dominant device in the lives of children and adolescents, displacing television as the main source of entertainment.
More time in front of screens: a new routine for children in Colombia
Figures show that, on average, children and adolescents in Colombia spend 8.9 hours on weekdays and 7.2 hours on weekends consuming content on screens; 61% of minors own a smartphone, a proportion that increases significantly with age: It reaches 81% among adolescents, 55% among preteens, and 35% in early childhood.
Although television remains relevant — with an average consumption of 6.1 hours on weekdays — it is usually watched in the company of family members. In contrast, smartphones are used much more individually, reducing opportunities for direct social interaction. In rural areas, 29% of minors still prefer local television content, but even there, internet access is rapidly gaining ground.
About 70% of children and adolescents access content through the internet, compared to 45% who watch cable or satellite television. However, despite the massive use of digital media, trust levels in these environments are low: Websites, social media, and apps barely exceed a score of 5.6 out of 10 in perceived reliability.
Social media is also a central part of the children’s digital ecosystem: 40% of minors have an account on at least one platform, a figure that rises to 77% among adolescents. TikTok dominates among younger users, while Facebook maintains a presence among older ones. This early access — often without adequate supervision — raises questions about exposure to inappropriate content and online safety.
The risks of screen consumption at an early age
Specialists warn that excessive use of electronic devices is not only a matter of time, but of their impact on children’s overall health. On a physical level, consequences such as increased sedentary behavior, vision problems, and sleep disturbances have been identified, especially when screen use extends late into the night.
As for mental health, the risks are even more complex. Constant exposure to social media can increase anxiety, low self-esteem, and social comparison, particularly among adolescents. Added to this are contact with strangers, misinformation, and access to violent or age-inappropriate content.
Academic performance is also affected. Teachers and school counselors point out that constant distraction and reduced time devoted to homework and reading influence school results. Moreover, excessive digital consumption limits participation in outdoor recreational activities and reduces opportunities for face-to-face interaction with family and friends.
One of the most concerning findings is the low level of parental mediation. Studies indicate that only 13% of parents use digital control or protection mechanisms, while 64% of children spend up to nine hours in front of screens without adult supervision.
Although many households apply rules — such as restricting device use as punishment or allowing it as a reward — these measures tend to be more disciplinary than educational.
A challenge for families and public policy
The current landscape highlights the need for a comprehensive approach involving families, schools, and authorities. Experts agree that the goal is not to ban technology, but to promote balanced and conscious use. Setting schedules, encouraging sports and cultural activities, and strengthening digital education from an early age are among the most recommended strategies.
In a country where connectivity continues to grow, the challenge is not only to guarantee access, but to ensure that such access contributes to the healthy development of childhood.