Thanks to readily available technology, children are exposed to screens all day long at home, school and almost everywhere else they go. Screens have become an intrinsic part of our everyday life! While highly useful, they can at times become overwhelming (for kids and adults alike!)
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children between the ages of 18 months and 5 years should limit screen time to one hour per day. For children between the ages of 5 and 17 there isn’t a standard recommendation on limits to screen time. Instead, parents should work with their kids on teaching health exercise routines, making sure homework is done, spending time with family and getting enough sleep. (Speaking of getting enough sleep, make sure you check out these tips for creating a successful nighttime routine for a child with ADHD.)
If you’re worried that your child is spending too much time on a digital device, you’re certainly not alone. Read on to learn how to tackle this sticky situation and effectively limit your child’s screen time for the better.
Take time to explain why
Step back and evaluate why it’s important to limit the amount of time spent viewing a bright screen.
Anytime a parent implements new rules or boundaries, clear communication as to why they are needed can go a long way in successfully getting buy-in.
Too much time in front of the screen can harm a child’s mental, physical and behavioral health. In fact, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, too much screen time is linked to lack of sleep, obesity and behavior issues at home or school.
So, it’s definitely worth sitting down with your kid and sharing your rationale behind the new digital policy.
Set an example
Adults can also find themselves down a digital rabbit hole and burn plenty of time on a screen.
By limiting your own time on the computer, TV, phone and social media, you can send the message that you practice what you preach.
From a child’s perspective, the limits you set on screen time will make much more sense if you do the same. It’s also an opportunity to unplug and reconnect with your loved ones.
Set reasonable boundaries
The digital world is all around us and it’s hard to shelter from it and not recognize some of the benefits therein. That’s why it’s important to set reasonable limits.
Most experts agree that children should spend no more than two hours, not including time spent on their studies.
TV watching, social media, texting and gaming all count toward the recommended two-hour cap.
Know when to hit off switch
If you’re eating dinner with the family or enjoying another group activity, ask your children to pump the digital brakes.
There’s no need to keep the TV on in the background or come close to a tablet during quality time or other activities.
When children engage in homework time, chores, dinner and other regular activities, bright screens and sounds will be nothing but a distraction. It can also lead to mindlessness, such as unnecessary snacking.
Track screen time
Operating systems allow parents to track usage. Use them. Families can also track screen time in a daily log.
When you track this data, you can better make adjustments and balance your child’s schedule.
Remember, it doesn’t have to be anything formal or super precise. By just getting into the habit of tracking time spent, you can provide the proper guidance and show how much your child has progressed.
Screen-free bedrooms
Health experts cannot emphasize enough the importance of no TVs or computers in a child’s bedroom. This must include tablets and phones.
It’s a tough digital pill to swallow, but a device curfew is essential to their health in every way. As children get older and seek digital independence for their studies and social life, this rule gets a bit more challenging. Nevertheless, as a parent you create the necessary balance that allows your children to thrive in every way.
Draw up plan
Once your children understand the rules and why they’re needed, it’s time to set a plan and move it forward.
This includes discussions about appropriate TV shows and games. It’s also when you should iron out how long they can watch or play. Once their time is up, it’s lights out. Make a rule and stick to it!
When it comes to a digital diet, the most important things to do are reinforce good habits and model healthy behavior at every opportunity. Scheduling regular screen-free time and finding opportunities to unplug are also good ways to remind your children you care and that you’re at their side.