Kids love to watch TV or view videos, photos, etc on phones but it is very important to monitor their screen activity as well as balance it with their other activities. This is because too much screen time and exposure to contents that are not age-appropriate can affect them physically, mentally, and socially. Here are some guidelines and strategies for managing screen time for children:
Age-appropriate limits: Set screen time limits based on the child’s age. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends not more than two hours per day for children over the age of two –
1 hour a day for 2-5 year olds, 1-2 hours a day for 6-18 year olds.
Balance with other activities: Encourage children to balance screen time with physical activity, outdoor play, and other forms of entertainment and education.
Make screen time a shared experience: Watch television shows or play video games with your child to help ensure that the content is appropriate and to encourage healthy habits.
Set device-free times: Designate device-free times, such as during meals, homework time, and before bed, to help children establish healthy habits.
Monitoring and supervising: Keep an eye on what your child is watching or playing, and consider using parental controls to limit access to inappropriate content. Stay involved in what your children are watching and playing to ensure it is age-appropriate and aligned with your values.
Discuss media use: Talk to your children about responsible and healthy media use, and respect their decisions and privacy.
Be flexible: Be prepared to adjust your guidelines as your children grow and develop, and consider their individual needs and interests.
Review and reassess regularly: Regularly review and reassess your screen time guidelines to ensure they continue to meet the needs of your family.
Lead by example: Show your child how to use technology in moderation by setting an example yourself.
Encourage self-reflection: Encourage children to reflect on how they feel after spending time on screens, and help them understand how to make healthy choices.
Implementing these guidelines and strategies can help children develop healthy habits around technology use, while also allowing them to enjoy the benefits of screen time in moderation.
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