Smartphones and the internet have become part of children's learning, social lives and daily routines, but excessive use can affect their physical and mental well-being. A 2024 World Health Organization Europe study of nearly 280,000 adolescents aged 11, 13 and 15 across 44 countries and regions found that problematic social media use increased from 7% in 2018 to 11% in 2022. Another 36% said they were almost constantly online keeping in touch with friends, highlighting the growing importance of healthy digital habits for children's mental health.

The Pingtung County Government Health Bureau recently held a seminar on parent-child communication, urging parents not to rely solely on taking away phones or banning internet use when children become overly absorbed online. Such approaches may instead increase conflict within the family. The bureau recommends that parents focus on understanding, interaction and listening, first learning why their children use the internet and what they need from it before agreeing on screen-time limits and family digital rules.

Health Bureau Director Chang Hsiu-chun said the internet itself is not the problem. The priority is helping children learn how to use it in a healthy way. Children may spend long periods online for social interaction, entertainment, stress relief or a desire for recognition. Parents should therefore look beyond screen time and create more opportunities for family interaction through meals, exercise and outdoor activities.

The Health Bureau said parents should also watch for whether internet use is interfering with daily life, rather than focusing only on the number of hours spent online. Parents can complete an Internet Use Habits Scale on the bureau's website for an initial assessment. For questions, they can call 08-7370123 for consultation. For concerns involving substance addiction or drug prevention, the 24-hour toll-free hotline 0800-770-885 is also available.