In today's digital age, it's no secret that screens have become an integral part of our lives. From smartphones and tablets to computers and televisions, screens are everywhere, and our children are growing up in a world where technology is an ever-present companion.
While screens offer numerous benefits, they can also present a challenge for parents and carers striving to strike a balance between screen time and other activities essential for cognitive and physical development, like outdoor play.
As we navigate the delicate task of raising the next generation, the question of how to reduce screen time for kids has become increasingly important.
In this blog, we'll explore practical strategies and tips for you to help your kids develop a healthier relationship with screens and discover the world of Outdoor Toys!
Why is too much screen time a bad thing?
It’s no secret that too much time in front of the TV can give you square eyes! Oh, wait, that is a myth. Excessive screen time can be detrimental for the following reasons:
- Physical health: Prolonged screen time often leads to a sedentary lifestyle, which can contribute to health issues such as obesity. It discourages physical activities and outdoor play, both of which are essential for a child's development.
- Sleep disruption: The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with sleep patterns. Excessive screen use before bedtime can make it harder for children to fall asleep and get the rest they need for healthy growth and development.
- Social development: Spending too much time on screens can limit face-to-face social interactions. Children need real-world social experiences to develop important social and emotional skills.
- Behavioural issues: Some studies have indicated a connection between high screen time and behavioural problems in children, potentially due to the impact of screen content and reduced time for other activities.
- Content concerns: Exposure to inappropriate or violent content can have a negative impact on a child's psychological development. Organisations like Common Sense Media have programming ratings and reviews to help you determine what's appropriate for your child's age.
Moreover, too much screen time can lead to more serious conditions such as low mood and depression.
How much screen time is too much for kids?
The ideal amount of screen time for children can vary depending on their age and temperament. However, a general guideline is no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time per day for children aged 6 to 18.
For younger children under the age of 6, it's often best to limit screen time and focus on quality educational content, if any.
What's most important is finding a balance that allows your child to engage in various activities, including physical exercise, reading, face-to-face social interactions, and schoolwork. Pay attention to signs that excessive screen time might negatively impact your child's physical or mental health, and adjust accordingly.
We’re not saying don’t let them enjoy brightly coloured cartoons or limit their goes on Candy Crush; ultimately, it's about ensuring screens complement, rather than dominate, a child's daily routine.
6 ways to reduce your child's screen time
To help you and your kids strike a healthy balance between screen time and other activities, we've compiled six practical methods to limit screen time. We hope these tips will empower you to create a more well-rounded and fulfilling daily routine for your child while fostering healthier habits.
Start early
The earlier in your child's life you start to limit screen time, the better. Establishing these limits from the beginning instils healthy habits that can last a lifetime.
Screen time limits encourage a more balanced lifestyle, helping your kids learn to prioritise play, face-to-face interactions, and academics over excessive screen use.
It also fosters the development of crucial social skills as children engage more with peers and family members, honing their empathy, cooperation, and communication abilities. Younger children love sensory play - which you can do using a sand pit, paddling pool, mud kitchen, or even their food! These activities are great for developing curiosity and coordination, and they're naturally drawn to these sensory activities as they explore the world around them.
Overall, initiating screen time restrictions early in a child's life and building out a strong repertoire of screenless activities at home sets a strong foundation for their wellbeing and balanced development.
Reduce your own screen time
Reducing the amount of time you spend on your own devices when aiming to limit your children's screen usage can make a world of difference.
Not only do you set a compelling example for your kids to follow, but you also create a more harmonious family environment. You foster genuine, quality family time, nurturing stronger relationships and open communication by engaging in activities that don't involve screens.
When you reduce your screen time, you emphasise the importance of balance and demonstrate your commitment to the rules you set for your children. This collaborative approach makes it easier for kids to accept and adapt to screen time rules.
Set realistic goals
Set achievable goals when working to reduce your kids' screen use. Unrealistic goals can lead to frustration and resistance. By breaking down the process into manageable steps and gradually decreasing screen time, you can make the transition smoother and less stressful for your children.
It also allows them to build new, healthier habits over time. Remember, it's a journey, not a race. Celebrate small victories, and be patient with setbacks. Realistic goals ensure a more positive and successful transition to a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle for your family.
Be consistent
Consistency is one of your greatest allies when striving to reduce your children's screen time. Maintaining a consistent routine and setting clear boundaries creates predictability and a sense of security for your kids. They know what to expect, making it easier to accept and adapt to the changes.
Consistency also reinforces the message that screen time limits are essential for their well-being. It helps prevent negotiations, resistance, and confusion.
By upholding your established rules, you provide a stable and structured environment that encourages your children to explore other activities, fostering healthier habits and a more balanced lifestyle.
Create phone-free zones
Creating designated phone-free spaces, whether at the dinner table, in bedrooms, or during specific activities, creates opportunities for focused, uninterrupted time for the whole family.
They provide everyone in your house a much-needed break from the constant pull of screens. These phone-free zones serve as a reminder that there are precious moments in life best experienced without the distraction of screens, helping your family strike a balance that encourages well-rounded development and meaningful relationships.
Encourage outdoor play
Remind your kids to breathe in the fresh air, explore the world around them, and let their imaginations run wild with outdoor play.
There are plenty of benefits of outdoor play - it helps children develop essential motor skills, promotes a healthier lifestyle, and supports their overall physical and mental well-being. It also fosters creativity and imagination, as the outdoors provides a vast canvas for their natural creativity.
Perhaps most importantly, nature offers a break from the digital world, reducing screen-related stress and overstimulation. Not got tons of space at home to work with? Not to worry! There are plenty of small garden play area ideas on our blog to help you make the most of your outdoor space.
Create your own garden playground with Outdoor Toys
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Whether they'd rather be King or Queen of the castle atop their very own climbing frame or want a private playhouse to read their favourite book, we have something for everyone at Outdoor Toys.
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FAQs
How long should a 12-year-old have screen time?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and Common Sense Media place less importance on the exact amount of time spent using screens for kids aged 6-18 and want parents to focus more on the quality of different digital media types.
What's important is the quality of kids' content, how your kids engage with it, and balancing their time with and without screens in ways that are healthy and support their development.
Is screen time bad for kids?
Screen time itself is not inherently bad for kids, but excessive or inappropriate use of screens can have negative effects on their physical and mental health.
When used in moderation and consisting of high-quality educational and age-appropriate content, screens can be valuable tools for learning and entertainment. Parents and carers should set limits and monitor the quality of screen time to ensure it's a positive and balanced part of a child's life.