A powerful forum for young voices emerged at the fourth Children’s Fair, where a speech competition delved into the critical issues surrounding childhood in the digital age and the complex relationship with social media. Participants expressed deep-seated anxieties about the pervasive presence of smartphones and online platforms, noting a rise in mental health challenges such as loneliness and stress among their peers. They highlighted a generation increasingly disconnected from the natural world, preferring virtual entertainment over the simple pleasures of outdoor games and face-to-face friendships. The competition underscored a growing disconnect between the virtual personas presented online and individuals’ true selves, leading to identity confusion. Speakers critically examined how constant digital engagement has altered social interactions, diminishing the value of direct communication and shared experiences. The potential for addiction to screens, the impact on physical health like eyesight, and the broader societal implications of a digitally saturated childhood were all passionately debated. The discourse strongly advocated for a conscious effort to reintegrate the richness of real-world experiences into children’s lives, fostering a healthier and more balanced development.
