During the sixth day of the fourth Children’s Fair, a compelling speech competition titled ‘Childhood and Social Media in the Digital Age: Identity Crisis’ provided a platform for young individuals to voice their profound concerns. The event shed light on the significant mental health challenges, including stress, anxiety, and isolation, that children are increasingly facing due to their extensive use of social media and digital devices. Participants lamented the decline in physical activity and traditional play, noting that children are becoming engrossed in virtual worlds rather than engaging with their physical surroundings and real-world social connections. The discussion emphasized the erosion of genuine interpersonal relationships, replaced by superficial online interactions. Speakers expressed worries about the loss of authentic childhood experiences, such as playing outdoors and developing strong social bonds through direct contact. The potential for cyberbullying and the dissemination of negative content online were also critical points raised. A strong plea was made for a conscious re-evaluation of our relationship with technology, advocating for a return to the appreciation of tangible experiences and the importance of real-world connections for a healthy upbringing.
