Given the phones, TVs, e-games and iPads around, limiting your child’s screen time might seem overwhelming. How much TV is good for them? Should they be texting all day long? Technology and screen time is a huge issue in this generation of parenting, which is what we need to ponder about as early on as possible.
Benefits of Healthy Screen Time Habits:
Healthy screen time habits encourage:
- physical well-being
- social and emotional growth
- brain development
- deep bonding and relationship
Limiting the screen time for a child well within the recommended amount for their appropriate ages can help parents develop healthy screen time habits. Connecting with grandparents on FaceTime or attending a meeting or class on Zoom is a far more engaging and enjoyable experience compared to just watching TV, playing video games, or using an app on your phone.
What Are the Recommended Screen Time Limits?
According to WHO ( World Health Organization), “Early childhood is a period of rapid development and a time when family lifestyle patterns can be adapted to boost health gains.”
Here’s the recommended Screen Time as per Indian Academy of Pediatrics:
Below 2 Years Age
If your baby is below 2 years old, it’s best to avoid screen time. However, it’s perfectly fine to include them in video calls with friends and family.
For 24 – 59 Months Age
Maximum of one hour of supervised screen time per day.
For Children 5-10 Years Age
Less than two hours per day.
Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34969943/
NOTE: Screen time must not replace other activities such as outdoor physical activities, sleep, family and peer interaction, studies and skill development, which are necessary for overall health and development of the children and adolescents.
Tips For Setting Screen Time Limits For Kids
Spending long hours looking at screens can cause digital eyestrain. For children aged 5 to 13, their eyes are still in the development stage. Too much screen exposure can result in tiredness, double vision, itching, and a burning feeling in the eyes. Additionally, eyestrain can lead to headaches, neck discomfort, and challenges with concentration.
Here are some helpful guidelines for parents to consider:
- Limit the use of electronic devices during family meals or activities.
- Stick to using one screen at a time.
- Explain to them the benefits of reducing screen time.
- Select programs or apps that are suitable for your child’s age.
- Encourage activities such as reading, physical play, arts, and crafts.
- Create a warm, nurturing, supportive, and fun environment at home.
- Audiobooks are great substitutions for screen time.
Key Takeaways:
There isn’t a universal approach, and no strict rules can be applied uniformly across all families. We recommend approaching screen time for kids similarly to how we handle junk food: a small amount is fine, but excessive consumption can lead to issues.
Contact us at 9004496621 for appointments.
Visit: Dr Vaidya Eye Hospital 202, 2nd Floor, Lotus Link Square, Andheri Link Rd, above Bank of Baroda, D.N. Nagar, Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400058.
Also, our other blog might interest you:
HOW TOO MUCH SCREEN TIME AFFECTS KIDS’ EYES: TIPS TO PREVENT EYE STRAIN