Experts point out that children with autism spectrum disorder show individual differences in screen usage. However, when looking at common trends, they state that these children face challenges in bilateral interaction skills.

Ergotherapy Specialist Emrullah Harun Kaya, drawing attention to the potential issues such as attention distraction, anger outbursts, and regression in motor skill development caused by excessive screen time, emphasized the importance of managing screen use in children with autism in a limited, controlled, and individualized manner to support both educational and developmental processes. Kaya also stressed the importance of limiting screen time, particularly in younger age groups, and recommended that the content be low-stimulation and educational, with parents or educators accompanying the children.

Emrullah Harun Kaya, an Ergotherapist at Üsküdar University NP Feneryolu Medical Center, discussed the effects of excessive screen time on children with autism.

The length of screen time causes children with autism to become more isolated from social interactions…

Emrullah Harun Kaya, an Ergotherapy Specialist, mentioned that observations about screen use in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) show individual differences. “Looking at common trends can provide more accurate results. Children with autism are generally sensitive to stimuli from their environment, and therefore, screens attract their attention. However, when screen time is prolonged, it has been observed that these children become more isolated from social interactions and struggle with bilateral interaction skills,” Kaya stated.

Kaya also pointed out that during screen time, attention spans shorten and the time spent focusing on a single activity decreases. He said, “This may lead to an increase in behavioral issues. For individuals with autism, who need support with language skills and sensory integration, limiting screen use is of great importance.”

Attention distraction and anger outbursts are negative consequences of excessive screen time…

When evaluating the effects of screen use on individuals with autism, Kaya noted both positive and negative aspects. “Among the positive effects, findings suggest that digital applications can support language development, communication skills, and cognitive processes,” he said.

However, Kaya stressed that excessive screen use can lead to various negative effects, stating:

“Prolonged screen exposure can cause problems such as a decline in social relationships, behavioral issues, and social skills. Additionally, an increase in screen time may have negative effects on motor skill development and physical health. Attention distraction, overstimulation, and anger outbursts are among the negative consequences of excessive screen use. In this context, managing screen use in children with autism in a limited, controlled, and individualized manner is essential to support both educational and developmental processes.”

Screen time for children with autism can be adjusted according to general age groups…

Emrullah Harun Kaya, emphasizing that appropriate screen time for individuals with autism varies depending on age, cognitive and emotional development levels, sensory sensitivities, and the quality of screen content, stated, “Especially in younger age groups, it is crucial to limit screen time. However, there is no definite standard for children with autism. Therefore, flexibility should be provided based on individual needs, and the recommended screen times for general age groups should be considered first.”

Kaya reminded of the recommended screen times according to general age groups, saying, “For children aged 0-2, screen time is generally not recommended. In this age group, face-to-face communication and physical play are considered more important, especially for early development in language, motor skills, and social interactions. For children aged 2-5, screen time should not exceed one hour a day. In this age group, screen time should be educational and interactive. For children aged 6 and older, screen time should be between 1-2 hours per day. In this age group, educational programs, content that develops reading and writing skills, social interaction-promoting games, and other learning activities are recommended.”

Screen content should consist of low-stimulation, calming, and non-distracting elements.

“The most important point to consider when children with autism use screens is to limit screen time, ensure the content is educational and structured, and choose content that fits the child’s developmental needs,” Emrullah Harun Kaya stated, stressing that screen content should be composed of low-stimulation, calming, and non-distracting elements, with visual and auditory components in harmony.

Kaya also emphasized the need to create an interactive environment with parents or educators during screen use and not leave children alone. “Applications that promote social skills should be preferred, and content with violence or excessive stimulation should be avoided. After screen time, time should be allocated for social interactions and physical activities, which supports children’s healthy development.”

Platforms with low social interaction and quick rewards can lead to screen addiction!

Emrullah Harun Kaya pointed out that individuals with autism may be more prone to screen addiction due to their tendency to show interest in repetitive behaviors and external stimuli. He concluded:

“Especially platforms with low social interaction and quick rewards are shown to lead to prolonged screen use in individuals with autism. Over time, this can result in a decline in social communication skills, shorter attention spans, difficulties in focusing, challenges in maintaining activity, and negative effects on sensory processing. Additionally, screen addiction can cause a lack of physical activity, disruptions in sleep patterns, and delays in skills development for daily life activities.”

DOI number: https://doi.org/10.32739/uha.id.60075