Written by: Darlia
Screen time describes the amount of time spent viewing a screen. Screens include computers, TVs, smartphones, video consoles and tablets. Screens are used for leisure, communication, work, and education. Screen use and screen time are a regular part of life for most teenagers and children. The time your child spends behind a screen can be part of a wholesome lifestyle. Infinitesimal amounts of screen use can be practical and pleasurable for families.
The time spent viewing a screen, and the standard of the content on a screen has been associated with a number of negative and positive health outcomes. These include:
- Sleep Deprivation
Children require more sleep than adults due to the developing mind and body. The average kid needs 8 -12 hours of sleep every night in pursuance of growth and development, but screen time is cropping off hours of that necessary sleep time. The blue light emitted by a screen is interpreted by the brain as daylight, and this prevents sleep onset in children. Less sleep in children leads to ADD, weight gain, and mood and behavior problems
- ADHD
Children who spend a lot of time behind a screen have a higher risk of displaying tendencies and behaviors often associated with ADHD as compared to children who engage in outdoor activities. Excessive use of screen time may increase hyperactivity and attention deficit in children at risk for ADD and ADHD. ADD symptoms often include features of disorganization, forgetfulness, and lack of focus.
- Undeveloped Communication Skills
Screen time can detach children to what is going on all around. Families may miss out on the daily interactions that boost healthy interactions. Friendships may also be overblown as children sit beside each other on screens instead of communicating and interacting with each other. Excessive screen time causes the children to miss out on developing language and communication through play and interaction with others.
- Exposure to Harmful Information
There is evidence showing that children who view violent content may view the world as a mean, scary and uncaring place. The children may resort to aggressive behavior as they see it to be normal. The internet and YouTube may provide an opportunity for children to view inappropriate messages. Teach your kids what is appropriate to think and share online before posting images and messages.
Mental and Emotional Impacts on Children
Technology has many merits when used responsibly, but as cases of depression among children rise, one may wonder if screens are negatively affecting the children. People are mentally wired for connection, and without it, one can feel lonely, which may lead to depression running the risk of premature death. Watching of violent content can lead to aggression in children, and excessive screen time also leads to socially inept children.
Tips To Regulate and Manage a Reduction in Screen Time
The first step is to set an example. There is a proverb that states ‘monkey see, monkey do.’ Youngsters are more likely to follow what you do than what you say so set a good example. Secondly, always remember to encourage healthy habits and limit unhealthy ones. The third step is to set viewing times. It is much easier to limit their screen time by setting up appropriate windows of screen use. Finally, be involved in the children lives and encourage other activities like reading books and playing board games.
Comparison of Screen Limits Based on Child’s Age
Family regulations about screen time can help your kid understand your family’s expectations and limits.
Among the AAP recommendations:
- For children younger than 18 months, avoid use of screen media other than video-chatting. Parents of children 18 to 24 months of age who want to introduce digital media should choose high-quality programming, and watch it with their children to help them understand what they’re seeing.
- For children ages 2 to 5 years, limit screen use to 1 hour per day of high-quality programs. Parents should co-view media with children to help them understand what they are seeing and apply it to the world around them.
- For children ages 6 and older, place consistent limits on the time spent using media, and the types of media, and make sure media does not take the place of adequate sleep, physical activity and other behaviors essential to health.
- Designate media-free times together, such as dinner or driving, as well as media-free locations at home, such as bedrooms.
- Have ongoing communication about online citizenship and safety, including treating others with respect online and offline.
In conclusion, despite the many dangers of excessive screen time posed on developing brains, there are many benefits of letting kids use technology. It is vital for parents to teach healthful, balanced tech habits and preserve excellent communication with your young ones, instead of banning all screen time. Once the little one is of three years, allow limited screen time to sharpen their skills and interests and also hone their language skills. Consider your advantages and concerns and allow screen time optimally to have an all-rounded kid.