Feb 14 • 04:30 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

Beatriz Martínez, psychiatrist: 'In a few years, leaving children with screens will be seen as when you soaked the pacifier in anise'

Beatriz Martínez discusses her new book on the effects of screens on children and advocates for banning social media use before age 16.

Beatriz Martínez, a psychiatrist specializing in neurodevelopmental issues, is releasing a timely book called 'Survival Manual for Parents in the Digital Age,' which arrives on February 18th. Her work coincides with government discussions on prohibiting social media use for children under 16, an issue increasingly gaining attention in Spain. The book compiles scientific evidence about the adverse effects screens and social media have on children, positioning it as a guide for parents navigating the complexities of digital parenting.

Martínez argues that in the future, allowing children unrestricted access to screens will be viewed with the same concern as the outdated practice of soaking pacifiers in alcohol. As a child psychiatrist, she draws from her professional experience to present clear and practical guidelines for parents. This includes recommendations for managing screen time and encouraging more traditional forms of childhood play and interaction.

The conversation surrounding digital safety for minors is particularly relevant in Spain, as it aligns with recent legislative proposals aimed at protecting children in the digital landscape. Martínez's insights not only resonate with current societal concerns but also contribute to the broader discourse on health, childhood development, and digital literacy, making her book a critical resource for parents.

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