Multitasking multimedia increases child’s levels of inactivity?

Children raised in a multitasking world filled with laptops, iPads, smartphones, video games and televisions could be at even greater risk of physical inactivity and obesity, according to a new study reported by the Daily Mail.

Researchers at Bristol University in the U.K. surveyed 63 ten and 11-year-olds about their multimedia use. They found that most of these children are quite at ease using multiple devices at the same time, such as texting with friends during television commercials or using their handheld game system to send instant messages while they play on the computer.

"Health campaigns recommend reducing the amount of time children spend watching TV. However, the children in this study often had access to at least five different devices at any one time, and many of these devices were portable," explained study author Dr. Russ Jago.

"This meant children were able to move the equipment between their bedrooms and family rooms, depending on whether they wanted privacy or company. This suggests that we need to work with families to develop strategies to limit the overall time spent multi-screen viewing wherever it occurs within the home."