Educational, Behavioral, and Mental Health Outcomes During the Late COVID‐19 Pandemic Phase Among Schoolchildren in Dhaka

Background Nearly 40% of Bangladeshi children were reported to have internet addiction during the COVID‐19 lockdown, raising concerns about its impact on learning, behavior, and mental health. School closures, reduced outdoor activity, and increased reliance on online platforms heightened risks of problematic internet use, but evidence from Bangladesh is limited. This study examined parental monitoring of children′s internet use and its association with educational, behavioral, and psychological outcomes during the late phase of the COVID‐19 pandemic, characterized by gradual reopening and ongoing disruptions. Methods A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among 405 parent–child dyads (children aged 6–17 years) selected through multistage random sampling. Data were collected using a validated semistructured questionnaire, and mental health was assessed with selected items from the Revised Children′s Anxiety and Depression Scale (RCADS‐25). Logistic regression models adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, parental education, income, screen time, and extracurricular activities. Results Internet use was reported by 94% of children, yet only 7% had parental monitoring. Recreational and social media use (58%) exceeded educational purposes (42%). Excessive educational internet use was linked with problematic behaviors (OR = 2.61; p < 0.001). Parental control was associated with lower odds of inattention (AOR = 0.17; p < 0.001), whereas outdoor game participation increased behavioral difficulties (AOR = 2.83; p < 0.001). Moderate depression was associated with poorer mental health (AOR = 1.91; p < 0.01). Conclusion Widespread internet use with minimal parental oversight was linked to adverse behavioral and psychological outcomes, underscoring the need for balanced digital practices and greater parental involvement.