Did you know?
Numerous studies have found that children’s use of digital screens (television, tablets, smartphones, computers, and gaming consoles) can have both positive and negative impacts on their long-term development. When limited and used responsibly, screens can definitely benefit education and learning. However, excessive screen time can negatively impact the development of skills required to plan, focus, solve problems, and even control emotions.
Too much screen time can also lead to problems in a child’s academic performance and social-emotional development. It can also be linked to childhood obesity, diminished quality of sleep, behavior problems, depression, and anxiety. It can impair emotional development, promote aggressive behavior, and hinder social skills and confidence. Successful development of language and communication skills are also negatively impacted by screen time, as it lowers the quantity and quality of interactions between children and their caregivers.
The Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study revealed that children who use screens more than seven hours a day had a thinner cortex layer (the part of the brain that processes information) than those who used screens less. U.S. teens, on average, spend over 8 ½ hours daily on screens (television, phones, tablets, computers, etc.), while preteens average 5-6 hours daily.
Here are simple steps to reduce screen time:
Put hand-held devices away.
During screen-free hours, put devices away or at a charging station in a common area so they're not attracting your kids' attention.Eliminate background TV.
If the TV is turned on — even if it's just in the background — it's likely to draw your child's attention. If you're not actively watching a show, turn it off.Don't eat in front of a screen.
Allowing your child to eat or snack in front of electronic devices increases his or her screen time. The habit also encourages mindless munching, which can lead to weight gain.Be engaged.
After school or work, spend time each day talking face to face with kids and give them your full attention.Set goals.
Set expectations with your kids, and create goals to be intentional about reducing screen time. Many devices have features to set time limits for use.
References
Can Too Much Screen Time Harm You? (n.d.). National Institute on Drug Abuse. Retrieved January 15, 2025, from https://nida.nih.gov/sites/default/files/NIDA_YR18_INS3_ACTION_StuMag_2pg_508.pdf
Christensen, J. (2021, May 28). Children and too much screen time. Mayo Clinic Health System. Retrieved January 15, 2025, from https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/children-and-screen-time
The effects of screen time on children: The latest research parents should know - CHOC - Children's health hub. (2024, August 27). CHOC. Retrieved January 15, 2025, from https://health.choc.org/the-effects-of-screen-time-on-children-the-latest-research-parents-should-know/
Kumar, S. (2023, June 18). Effects of Excessive Screen Time on Child Development: An Updated Review and Strategies for Management. Effects of Excessive Screen Time on Child Development: An Updated Review and Strategies for Management. Retrieved January 15, 2025, from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10353947/
Scherger, S. (2023, April 17). Tips to reduce children's screen time. Mayo Clinic Health System. Retrieved January 15, 2025, from https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/6-tips-to-reduce-childrens-screen-time