According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children today spend an average of seven hours every day in front of some kind of screen, whether it be TV, tablet, e-reader, or cell phone. So, what do you do if you want to limit your child’s screen time? Watch our segment on NBC Connecticut Live for some tips… and we have event more suggestions, below!
Track your kids’ screen time
This way, you know exactly how much time your children are spending on electronics and can act accordingly. On your iPhone, iPad or iPod go to Settings > Screen Time, Tap Turn On Screen Time, Tap Continue, Select This is My [device] or This is My Child’s [device].
Keep yourself educated
Kids are learning about the latest in technology all the time. So it’s important for you to also stay up to date! This way you can keep up with what apps they’re using and what they may be using those apps for.
Embrace the positive aspects of technology
Technology isn’t all bad! Be sure to let your kids know that! There are apps, programs, etc. that are educational, empower, entertain and encourage their creativity.
Have a “Technology Free Zone” in your house
It’s up to you to decide where this is and you can keep it simple! Even if it’s just the dinner table so that you have time to talk and connect as a family without any distractions. This shows children that there are ways to communicate without electronics.
Be intentional about disconnecting from devices before bedtime
Whether it’s 30 minutes or 90 minutes before bed, be sure to set a time every night when everyone in the family disconnects from their electronics. It’s important for you to do the same as a parent so that you’re leading by example. Create a charging station in the kitchen, living room or other public area and have the whole family put phones, iPads, etc. This will keep kids from bringing electronic in their rooms overnight and sneaking extra screen time.
Encourage other activities
Whether it’s going outside to play basketball, inviting friends over, doing a puzzle or playing a game, give, kids other entertainment options.
Talk to kids openly & honestly about the potentially harmful aspects of social media
Emphasize to your children, the importance of not giving out any personally-identifiable information because there are “tricky” people out there who can use that information for bad purposes. Even explain, “too much TV isn’t healthy” so that you aren’t just saying “no” to time on their devices without explanation.
Use parental controls & obtain passwords to kids’ social media accounts so you can monitor them
Be honest with kids about this and how you’re doing it to help protect them. Programs like YouTube allow you to go in and set parental controls. Apps can help, too! Bark monitors text messages, YouTube, emails, & 24 different social networks for potential safety concerns. Net Nanny can track your child’s location, display their location history & set time allowances. OurPact involves kids in managing daily screen time that you give them & helps with scheduling.
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