Cell phones, tablets, video games, Netflix, YouTube…these are all responsible for our children spending more time in front of a screen.
According to this article on screen time and children, those aged between 8-12 spend an average of around 4-6 hours a day in front of their screens and teens spend up to 9 hours. Of course, there is also a rise in children younger than 8 using screens too, which is something that might relate to your family.
So, what do we do about the issue? Banning screen time is probably a bad idea unless we want to create all-out warfare in our homes. And besides, screen time isn’t always a bad thing, as our kids do deserve to have some fun in their lives. Some of the things they watch and interact with can be educational too!
Here are just a few ideas that might be useful to you.
#1: Set limits
Set parameters for screen time.
You might give your kids a time limit, for example, with a cut-off point at a certain time in the evening.
You could also set times where screen time isn’t allowed, such as at mealtimes or the hour before bedtime.
Once your children get used to the limits you set, there should be fewer arguments at home. Dig your heels in until that time arises and be firm with your choices.
#2: Provide alternatives
Before screen time, children used to play with toys. They would do jigsaw puzzles, read books, and play board games. There is still room for that — but kids tend to like items that are a little more nuanced and involved nowadays.
Your younger children might enjoy this 6” Deluxe Transforming Jett toy, for example, and others from that range if they are into the TV show ‘Super Wings.’
Older kids might be more prone to playing with Lego if you buy them the Minecraft Lego set, assuming they are into that particular video game.
Consider what your children are into and buy them something along similar lines.
#3: Encourage hobbies
Some hobbies can be associated with screen time, such as playing video games. However, there will probably be other things your kids are into.
They might have a particular talent for something, for example, or there could be something they want to learn.
As the parent, you should help them develop their talents and interests as you will take their focus away from their screens.
In some situations, they might also meet other people with shared interests, and create friendships that are offline rather than online.
#4: Role model good behavior
It’s no good telling your kids to limit screen time if you’re forever scrolling through Facebook on your phone.
While you will always have the argument “I’m an adult and I can do what I want,” that might not fly with your kids if they loudly protest at the injustice.
So, role model good behavior both in and out of the home, and put your screens away. Not only will this be a good example for your kids but you might also be motivated to do something more productive with your time if you aren’t glued to your screen!
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