Many children use their electronic devices several hours or more a day.  Social media, TV programs and video game times can quickly add up. One must also take into account non recreational screen time spent doing school work.  These activities equate to time not spent socializing in person, playing outdoors, sitting with family or exercising.

On September 26th, 2018 researchers published in Lancet a new cross-sectional observational study evaluating a balance of behaviors, including physical activity, sleep and screen time which affect cognitive development. The findings indicate limiting children’s screen time to less than two hours a day  with benefit to one’s ability to acquire knowledge through activities, and ultimately contribute to brain and cognitive development in children and adolescents.

The article below provides a concise overview of how far scientists have come with understanding the actual effects of screen time and brain development.  Practical implications are identified and the article is straightforward.

Sukel, K. (2017, November 6).   The Truth About Research on Screen Time. retrieved from http://www.dana.org/Briefing_Papers/The_Truth_About_Research_on_Screen_Time/#_ednref22

I have summarized some practical strategies to help your child find a healthy balance using their electronic devices.  

• BE SAFE: Be aware of what your children are doing on their computers and phone. I recommend an open dialogue. At about  age of 17 many children will leave for college and need to know how to make safe and good choices. This skill evolves through time and experience and you are in the position to educate and guide them while they still live at home.

• Have a plan and a schedule for when computer time is allowed.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends and individualized family approach to the appropriate amount of screen time.

www.healthychildren.org/English/Pages/default.aspx

• Refrain from phone usage at the dinner table. Turn it off or silence it.

• Discuss the research with your children, sharing both the positive and negative; this is a discussion to understand and develop one’s own sense of self regulation.  

• Strive for balance - our children live in a different world then we did growing up. Their worlds are very technology dependent, considering this fact is helpful.

• Offer alternatives ( games, activities). I always carry a deck of cards with me. Card games can be played anywhere, reinforce math skills and are social. Game playing developes use of eye contact and reinforces social cues, skills that one cannot hone from a computer or phone.

• Give choices. Providing your children with controlled options gives a sense of power over what they do and can help them be more cooperative. For example, asking “Would you prefer play your hour of video games between the hours of 4pm-6pm or 7pm-8pm?” is likely more effective than you dictating the one and only option.   

• Remember, everyone has unique family dynamics and different situations require flexible parenting skills, do what is most effective for you and your family.