‘Children are living in a bubble’: Why high-rise living may be limiting kids’ physical development

A pediatric physiotherapist has warned that high-rise living may be impeding children's physical development. Ushma Goradia highlighted the decreased opportunities for kids to engage in natural physical activities due to parents making life excessively convenient. From using elevators instead of stairs to growing up in controlled environments, children are missing out on essential skills like climbing stairs and interacting with uneven surfaces.

The physiotherapist urged parents in high-rise buildings to encourage their children to climb stairs occasionally to maintain physical independence. She emphasized that uneven terrains are crucial for developing both large and small muscle groups. Instead of relying solely on organized activities, children can benefit from playing creatively with objects they find around them, such as stones, bricks, or wooden sticks.

Ushma expressed concern about the increasing trend of children living in carefully monitored, bubble-like environments, which further limits their physical experiences. A 2019 study found that excessive screen time during early childhood led to poorer developmental outcomes.