An urgent proposal calling for the launch of an after-school programme aimed at protecting children from excessive use of smart devices has been approved by Parliament.
It was submitted by five MPs led by Dr Muneer Suroor, who warned of a ‘silent crisis’ affecting Bahraini families.
“Our children’s longest stretch of free time is the period after school, yet for many it has turned into nothing more than hours of screen use. If we fail to organise this time now, we will face higher costs later – in their education, health and behaviour,” Dr Suroor said.
“This is not an exaggerated problem. The harm is real and visible every day in our homes,” he added.
The proposal calls for a co-ordinated national programme involving several government bodies, including the Ministries of Social Development, Education, Youth Affairs, Health, Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, the General Sports Authority, the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, as well as private sector institutions.
Under the proposal, after-school hours would be structured through sports, cultural and artistic activities, life-skills programmes, team games, scouting, and social initiatives in schools, clubs, youth centres, parks, open spaces and shopping malls.
It also calls for organising ‘no-smartphone’ events that bring families and children together, reviving traditional physical games and creating new ones that encourage movement and social interaction.
Dr Suroor said the aim was not to demonise technology, but to restore balance.
“We are not against smart devices. Technology is part of life. But it should not be the only option available to a child every day,” he said.
MPs were told that excessive screen use among children is contributing to early digital addiction, social isolation, weakened communication skills, sleep disorders, eye strain and neck and spine problems, while also increasing pressure on families who lack affordable alternatives.
Dr Suroor stressed that the problem becomes even more serious during Ramadan, when late nights and the absence of child-focused evening activities lead to longer hours on devices.
“Ramadan should be a month of values, family connection and positive routines, not a season of uncontrolled screen consumption for children,” he said.
He added that the proposal could be implemented quickly using existing facilities, without the need for new infrastructure.
“All that is required is co-ordination, planning and political will,” he said.
“Prevention is always cheaper and more effective than treatment.”
Parliament Speaker Ahmed Al Musallam praised the initiative and urged MPs to support solutions that strengthen family stability and child development.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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