In 2024, the term “brain rot” was declared the Oxford Word of the Year—a choice that perfectly shows the startling impact the internet has on our minds, particularly in children. Brain rot describes the addictive and mind-numbing content that many kids consume online. The viral trends on social media made kids spend a lot of time on their screens, and this changed how they behaved.
Let’s discuss what “brain rot” is, the science behind it, and how parents can help their children strike a healthier balance with technology.
What Is Brain Rot?
The term “brain rot” is not a recognized medical diagnosis. However, it is often used to describe the perceived negative effects of excessive screen time on children’s cognitive development. When kids spend a lot of time watching fast videos like Instagram reels, trending videos or playing games, it can overload their brains.
Even though the internet has lots of good things to learn and enjoy, all the excitement and quick rewards can be too much for young minds. This can make kids act differently and even slow down their development.

The Science Behind Brain Rot
Researchers from institutions like Harvard and Oxford are worried that too much time on the internet might be changing our brains. They found that spending a lot of time online could:
- Make it harder to think clearly: The internet has so much information that it can be hard to focus on one thing, which might make it harder to think straight.
- Weaken our memory: It might be harder to remember things because we’re constantly switching between different websites and apps.
- Change how we interact with others: Spending too much time online might change how we understand and talk to other people.
This is especially true for kids. Children who spend a lot of time on electronics can experience changes in the brain that impact how they learn, socialize, and even control their emotions. Screen time affects the brain’s reward system, similar to how drugs do. Kids constantly crave that feeling of excitement from beating a game or watching a new video, just like they might crave a drug.
Finding Balance: A Practical Approach
It’s neither practical nor necessary to completely eliminate electronics from your child’s life. Technology has its benefits, and when used in moderation, it can support learning and creativity. The key is to establish balance and set boundaries.
Here are some tips:
- Set Screen Time Rules: Decide on specific hours for screens and enforce “no screen” zones, such as during meals or before bedtime.
- Promote Offline Activities: Encourage hobbies like reading, drawing, or outdoor play to provide a break from screens.
- Lead by Example: Children mimic their parents. Show them how to use technology responsibly by practicing mindful screen habits yourself.
Why Balance Matters in the Long Term
Spending too much time on screens can have a big impact on how children grow and develop.
Missing Out on Key Skills: Kids learn important things like how to solve problems, control their feelings, and talk to others when they interact with people face-to-face. If screens take up too much of their time, they might miss out on these valuable experiences.
Impact on Brain Development: Studies suggest that excessive screen time can affect how children’s brains develop. Just like with things that are addictive, screens can constantly trigger the brain’s reward system, making kids want more and more screen time.
Helping Your Child Thrive in the Digital World
By teaching your child to use technology wisely, you can help them develop a healthy relationship with the digital world. This means they can use technology in a way that helps them grow and learn, instead of hindering their development.
A Healthy Relationship with Technology
In today’s world, screens are everywhere. It can be hard to find the right balance for your child. However, by setting reasonable limits and encouraging them to enjoy offline activities, you can help them develop a healthy relationship with technology.
While the term “brain rot” might seem extreme, it highlights a serious concern. Too much screen time can negatively impact a child’s emotional, social, and cognitive development.
By taking small, consistent steps to reduce screen time and encourage other activities, you can ensure your child enjoys the benefits of technology while minimizing the potential downsides.
“Brain rot” is a stark reminder of the challenges facing children in today’s digital age. However, as parents and caregivers, we possess the power to guide them towards a healthier relationship with technology. By fostering a balance between screen time and real-world experiences, we can empower children to reap the benefits of technology while nurturing their emotional, social, and cognitive development.