Screentime Guidelines

It is no surprise that technology has become a large part of our daily lives.  While there are many great things that come with technology, the use of technology by our children needs to be monitored on a regular basis to ensure proper usage and balance with other activities such as playing outside or socializing with friends. 

As kids get older, too much screen time can interfere with activities like being physically active, doing homework, playing with friends, and spending time with family.  Too much screen time can also contribute to obesity, attention problems, sleep disorders, and problems at school. Some studies have shown that teens spend almost 9 hours a day online, whether that being on the phone, watching TV, or playing video games. 

So how much is too much?  That is up to you as the parent.  Not all screen time is created equal.  It’s up to parents to decide how (and how often) their teens use screens and whether screen time is positive or negative. For instance, time spent on homework or other educational activities might not need to be as restricted as time spent playing video games etc.

Here are some screen Time Tips:

·      Research video and computer games before letting your teen/child get them

·      Preview games and even play them with your child/teen to see what they’re like

·      Make sure they have a variety of free-time activities including spending time with friends and playing sports and getting outside

·      Turn off all screens during family meals and at bedtime.  Do not let your child/teen have their phones or tablets in their rooms overnight and don’t let them have a TV in their room 

·      Treat screen time as a privilege that they need to earn, not a right that they’re entitled to.  Screen time should be allowed after homework and chores are done

·      Spend screen time together; you can use this time to connect and communicate

·      Use screening tools to block your child’s access to inappropriate material

·      Teach your teen about internet safety and social media smarts