With screen-related activities being an unavoidable part of modern life, parents have to make sure their children develop a healthy relationship with technology. Since unsupervised and excessive screen time can inhibit a child’s ability to learn, parents should try to limit their use. Here are 5 tips you could try to decrease daily screen time with as little conflict as possible.
Make sure bedtimes, mealtimes, and family-times are screen-free
During these times, try to focus solely on family bonding and social interaction, eventually it’ll become a habit. During family time you can play board games, do sports, walk to the park, really just anything that will keep your child engaged and not staring at a screen. Moments like these are crucial for well-rounded development.
Limit your own phone use
Children will do what their parents are doing. You are the first and most important role model and your child will imitate any behavior they see. If you are absorbed in your screens all day, this is an indirect signal that tells your child it is okay to act this way.
Interact instead of distract
Instead of using a phone to keep your child occupied, try finding an activity they can do to help you. When you’re preparing dinner, try having your child help by washing vegetables or measuring out ingredients. Your child will want to imitate whatever you’re doing so it’s a great opportunity to get them to help.
Set a strict time limit
Sometimes you just have to put your foot down and come up with a reasonable time limit. However a concrete time limit can be difficult because how much screen time is too much? In the end it is up to the parents to find a balance between sleep, nutrition, exercise, and of course, screen time.
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