Managing Screen Time: Finding a Healthy Balance for Kids in a Digital World

We have accelerated technology over the past century and in the way we gain or retrieve information. In a way, our society has become very digital, and it has become essential for daily life. It makes sense that kids are being introduced to phones, tablets and computers at an early age. However, where do we draw the line between being digitally connected and enjoying life in other ways?

Screen Time Limits

We used to use a straightforward rule for kids of no more than 2 hours of screen time per day. However, it is not uncommon for children today to spend just as much time on the computer screen doing homework and they have not started searching for other, non-academic items of interest yet.

Individualized Plans

A better way to address monitoring screen time with kids might be to have an individualized plan. We can tailor screen time to our children depending on their personality and temperament, and what we value as a family and how we would like to organize our day. The 5 C's of Media Guidance published by the AAP in HealthyChildren.org can give us some insight into creating a plan for our families.

Why It’s Hard to Stop

It’s hard to ask children to stop doing screen time. In part, especially if they are playing a game and they are enjoying it, we are asking them, “to stop having fun.” Who wants to do that? Interesting enough, activities that lead to fun and pleasure are tied into dopamine release in our brains. We talk about the “feel good” neurotransmitter, and the levels go up when we are having fun. It almost feels like we are having a “withdrawal effect” when we stop the activity. So how do we learn to switch activities and still feel ok?

Recommendations for Parents

Here are some recommendations to help your child switch to other activities:

• First and foremost, as parents, we have a responsibility to be role models and have children learn from us. By putting our phones and tablets down, we can lead with family activities of our choice and help them have fun in a non-digital way.
• If they get upset, remind yourself that you are in charge and remain calm. You are more likely to come up with good solutions and alternatives when you are calm.
• Let your child know there is a time limit on how long they can use the device. Use a timer or use the device settings to stop the activity. In a way, you have removed yourself from the decision of stopping the activity so if they get mad, it will not be at you.
• If possible, have apps (and games) on the device that you are ok with, especially if they are educational. Even for older children, YouTube settings can be managed to accommodate for your preferences.

Protecting Eye Health

One last item to consider are the eyes. We know that too much screen time can cause a strain on the eyes. Read on to get more information on why it is important to protect their eyes.

References:

Kids & Screen Time: How to Use the 5 C's of Media Guidance - HealthyChildren.org

Give Your Child's Eyes a Screen-Time Break: Here's Why - HealthyChildren.org

Screen Time & Temper Tantrums: Helpful Tips for Parents - HealthyChildren.org