How Much Screen Time Is Okay for Kids?

Introduction

As parents, we want to provide our children with the best possible upbringing and future. This includes ensuring that they have a healthy balance of screen time and other activities. But what is the right amount of screen time for kids? How can we limit their screen time without depriving them altogether? And when is it ok to let kids use screens? In this blog post, we will answer these questions and give you tips on how to create a healthy screen time schedule for your family.

What Is the Perfect Screen Time for Your Child?

There is no one answer to this question as it depends on the individual child’s needs and interests. However, the general guideline is that kids should have no more than two hours of screen time per day. This includes watching TV, playing video games, using the computer, and browsing the internet. If your child uses screens for schoolwork, this time should be in addition to the two hours.

Parenting tips for managing your child’s screen time!

1. Establish screen-free zones and times

Screen-free zones and times will help your child develop a healthy relationship with screens and avoid screen addiction. There should be certain areas in your home where screens are not allowed, such as the bedroom or dining room. And there should be specific times when screens are not to be used, such as during family meals or before bedtime.

2. Set limits on screen time

It is important to set limits on your child’s screen time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children aged 2-5 should have no more than 1 hour of screen time per day. The recommended limit is 2 hours per day for children aged six years and older. You can set limits on your child’s screen time by creating a daily schedule or using a screen time tracking app. Make sure to stick to the schedule as much as possible, so your child knows what to expect.

3. Encourage other activities for kids

In addition to setting limits on screen time, it is also important to encourage your child to participate in other activities. This could include playing outside, reading books, or doing puzzles. Try to devise a list of activities your child enjoys, and make sure to schedule some time for these activities every day.

4. Be a good role model

It is important to set a good example for your child when it comes to screen time. If you are constantly on your phone or tablet, your child is likely to want to do the same. Try to limit your own screen time in front of your child and participating in other activities together. This will help your child to understand the importance of balancing screen time with other activities.

5. Encourage physical activity

Make sure to schedule time for physical activity every day. This can be something as simple as going for a walk together or playing catch in the backyard. Encouraging your child to be active will help them stay healthy and balanced. It is important to find a balance when it comes to screen time. Your child will likely want to do the same if you are constantly on your phone or tablet. 

Why Is Excessive Screen Time Harmful to Your Child?

1. It can lead to poor sleep habits

If your child is spending too much time on screens, it can lead to difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. The bright light from screens can suppress the production of melatonin, the hormone that helps regulate sleep. This can make it harder for your child to fall asleep at night and may cause them to wake up feeling tired in the morning.

2. It can cause social and emotional problems

Excessive screen time can interfere with your child’s ability to develop healthy relationships with others. It can also lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression.

3. It can increase the risk of obesity

Too much screen time can lead to weight gain. This is because it often goes hand-in-hand with less physical activity and poor dietary choices.

4. It can negatively impact school performance

Spending too much time on screens can prevent kids from getting the sleep they need. It can also interfere with homework and other essential activities for school success.

5. It can cause behaviour problems

Excessive screen time has been linked to attention problems, sleep problems, and increased aggressive behaviour.

6. It can cause addiction.

For some people, spending too much time on screens can lead to an addiction. This means they feel like they can’t go without it and may start to experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to cut back.

7. It can damage their eyes.

Too much screen time can cause eye strain and worsen eyesight. It can also cause permanent damage to the retina (the back of the eye).

8. It can impact their posture.

Slouching and hunching over screens can lead to bad posture and back pain. Using screens for long periods can have a lot of adverse effects on kids. It’s important to limit screen time and make sure kids are getting enough physical activity and spending time in nature. Screens should not be used as a babysitter or reward, and parents should avoid using screens themselves in front of their kids.

Takeaway

How do you manage your family’s screen time? So, how much screen time is okay for kids? The answer to this question isn’t as simple as a one-size-fits-all response. What matters most is that parents are thinking about the types of screens their children use and what they use them for. It’s also important to set reasonable limits on screen time and enforce them consistently. And finally, it can be helpful for parents to get in the habit of unplugging from screens themselves from time to time so they can model healthy behaviour for their kids.