We all know that computer and TV screens are now an everyday part of our lives and that includes our children.
A recent survey commissioned by ParticipACTION found 76 per cent of parents in B.C. with children 12 and younger have used a screen to occupy their children when they are busy, trying to get things done or want some quiet time.
We would all acknowledge that there are times when parents simply need some time for household chores or a break in the action. Screen time can make this happen.
The trick is to first monitor exactly what the kids are doing with this screen time. Ensure that what they are watching or the game they are playing is appropriate.
The second factor is to be careful to limit the amount of screen time the kids are getting.
And for the little ones, screen time is not a good idea for children under the age of two. They can't process the information and while they have no idea what is happening, it mesmerizes them.
According to ParticipACTION the average Canadian child spends seven hours and 48 minutes a day in front of screens - that's almost a 40-hour workweek. However, only 54 per cent of parents in B.C. are concerned about the screen time habits of their children. Too much screen time can make it hard for a child to sleep at night, raise a child's risk of attention problems, and leave less time for active, creative play.
The survey has good news - 91 per cent of parents in B.C. say they plan to make physical activity a priority for their children this year.
There are a number of great hints to help parents limit screen time with their children - from toddlers to teens. Some of the ideas include:
- Make family rules that limit how much screen time your kids are allowed each day. This also means that you can't watch TV whenever you want. If you're watching TV so are the kids, even if they seem to be ignoring it.
- For the same reason eliminate background TV as it's likely to draw your child's attention. I have been in homes where the TV is on constantly and I know it distracts me from the conversation in the room. If you need background sound, turn on music.
- For younger children, avoid using screens as an "electronic babysitter." If your young child is watching TV, watch with them so that you can monitor their understanding of what they are seeing. Ideally they will be watching programs you have taped ahead to make sure they are quality shows appropriate for this young age group.
- For older children, don't allow a TV, computer or cell phone in your child's bedroom. This is a real challenge but when kids have any screens in their rooms they are less likely to sleep well. They will get tweets throughout the night or receive texts from friends and pretty soon they are engaged in a middle-of-the-night conversation.
Limiting and controlling time is just part of the equation. Getting the kids outside to play is the second component.
If your children are school age, teach them how to walk to school and to the park.
Involve other parents so kids walk and play together. n Organize family activities which include exercise such as hikes, swimming, skating or bowling.
If your children are younger, take them to the park and playground, and play outside as much as possible.
Involve the grandparents; they love to take kids on outings.
We can't totally avoid screen time with our children but we can teach them how to maintain a balance between their electronic activities and their physical play. When we do that our kids will be healthier and thus happier.
Kathy Lynn is a professional speaker and author of Vive la Difference, Who's In Charge Anyway? and But Nobody Told Me I'd Ever Have to Leave Home. If you want to read more, sign up for her informational newsletter at parentingtoday.ca.
