The literature regarding screen time and children is somewhat varied. Sources have many differing opinions on the subject and the research is vast. We aim to provide you with the best information available. However, parents should always trust their instincts and do what they feel is right for their families.
Firstly, the term “screen time” is used to describe any sort of activity done in front of a screen. This can mean watching TV, using a computer or cell phone, or playing video games.
The AAP reports that “ today’s children are spending an average of seven hours a day on entertainment media, including televisions, computers, phones and other electronic devices.” Some kids are spending more time watching their screens than they spend in school!
Screen Time Pros
- Access to education programs and apps
- Kids should learn to type and practice using programs
- Help with schoolwork (online tools like encyclopedias, dictionaries)
- Access to ebooks
Screen Time Cons
- Increased risk of obesity
- Decreased ability to sleep
- Increased risk of attention problems, anxiety, depression
- Negative media and content
Health & Screen Time
Screen time is usually spent sitting down, which is part of the reason why screen time leads to obesity. The other reason is that screen time can impede the ability to sleep. (As we know, sleep loss or lack of sleep can also lead to obesity.) In fact, children that have TVs in their bedrooms are more likely to be obese.
Development
Children under two should not have any screen time. These young children are busy working on development. They learn best by interacting with people rather than screens. In this study, researchers found that infants have decreased quality and quantity of language input when playing with electronic toys, versus playing with traditional toys or books.
Advertisements
Commercials on TV (especially during children’s programs) are full of unhealthy, sugary, or fatty foods. Food advertising on TV is the dominant reason why children and adults who watch too much TV are obese. Additionally, people tend to eat more while in front of the TV. When we’re watching something, we automatically chow without realizing how much we’re eating.
Make The Rules
Involve your kid(s) in the decision process of making screen time rules. Maybe you decide that all screens must be off 30 minutes before bed. Maybe they are allowed to have two hours a day if you can monitor what they’re doing on their screens. It’s important to help to guide them towards good choices, rather than simply push ideas upon them.
The AAP recommends parents establish “screen-free” zones by making sure there are no TVs computers or video games in bedrooms, and by keeping the TV off during dinner. They also recommend that both children and teens should use entertainment media for no more than two hours a day.
Monitor your kid’s screen access in order to be included in what they’re learning, and to be sure that they aren’t accessing something they shouldn’t be. As they age, your kids may require more privacy, which is normal. However, it’s important to note that the dark parts of the online world can be easy to access.
Older Kids and Teens
Talk to your kid about social media. Some online activities can be dangerous or illicit. Teens may experience a range of questionable media influences from cyberbullying to sexting. Keep the conversation going with them about how to avoid some of these more negative influences. Check out the AAP’s site, SafetyNet, in order to learn more about these issues.
Screen Time v. The Real World
What should my child do instead of screen time?
- Play outdoors
- Read a book
- Start a hobby (art, sports, dancing)
- Play board games
- Walk the dog
- Do a puzzle
- Go for a hike, to the beach, to the museum, etc.
- Color
- Play with friends
- Help cook a meal
- Garden
- Clean something (Ha!)
- Play music
Focus on other activities that help to get their creativity flowing. Ask them questions about what they did. Make the extra emphasis on activities outside of school and off of their screens. Having time to rest the brain is wonderful, but there are a lot of hours in the day! Make sure your kids have a good balance of screen time and activity time.
Teach by example and try to limit your own media use. Be mindful and put down your cell phone while you eat. Try challenging yourself and your family by all following the same media rules. Use good judgment and trust your instincts!
Click over to Mom Loves Best for more information and a great infographic on screen time. For questions or concerns, respond to this blog post or contact us!
