Why you should limit Screen Time for Children
When it comes to technology and screens, we must be honest with ourselves. The screen has come to stay. Technology is changing the world in both positive and negative ways. This can be disturbing and confusing to parents who are not accustomed to this culture said Dr. Tim Elmore in his book Nurturing the Leader within your Child. Personally, I have decided to engage and learn the technology culture. I will not totally avoid it, neither will I totally submit to it. I would rather use it to communicate valuable life lessons to the younger generation through the lens of moderation.
In this article, you will find
- Fearful statistics on children screen use and its effect
- Screen use recommendations by the American Academy of Pediatrics
- Alternative to excessive screen use
Fearful statistics on children screen use and its effect
Excessive screen time for children has gained media attention recently. Report says, “teens and tweens spend a ‘mind-boggling’ 9 hours a day using media”. Experts and parents are concerned about the impact this is having on brain development for children and teenagers. The fact is ‘screens are addictive’. The inventors of smart technology exploited the vulnerability of human psychology. I read recently that there are hundreds of rehabilitation centers in China and Korea to help addicted teenagers – addiction to screens and devices, not hard drugs. Parents are concerned and often engage in power struggles with children over excessive screen and media use.
As a mother of two children (aged 10 and 7 years), not only am I concerned about the contents my children are exposed to, I am deeply worried about how long they spend on devices. I began to research and implement possible strategies to combat this challenge of our time. I believe in being intentional about the outcomes I desire for my children. It is my job to safeguard them and empower them for success in life. I wish I can say I am there yet but not at all. However, I have made some good progress. I am writing this to share my findings and tips on helping children limit screen time with minimal or no power struggles.
Here are some screen time recommendations by the American Academy of Pediatrics for younger children:
- For children younger than 18 to 24 months avoid using digital media altogether. Promote healthy brain development activities like talking, playing, singing and reading together.
- For children 2 to 5, limit screen time to one hour per day.
- No matter the age, avoid using media as the only way to calm your child or as a babysitter.
- Monitor your child’s media content and what apps are used or downloaded.
- Avoid screens one hour before bedtime and keep TVs out of bedrooms.
- Keep mealtimes screen-free (I am just learning this, smiles).
- Set a good example as parents. Children need parental guidance and modeling.