Screen Time: How much is too much?

Are we losing our children to the gadgets and internet? As the world advances, so does technology. As we advance, so does our dependence on technology. In today’s times, we are so dependent on our phones and gadgets, that even if a flicker of doubt arises we rush to find the answer on our Smartphone’s. If we are bored, or there is a lull in the day, there comes our phone, iPad or other gadgets to our rescue. Are gadgets becoming the new pacifier?

Parenting has never been easy and to top it all, we are now faced with the issues of grappling with technology as well. In a day and age where it is almost impossible to even imagine a world without our smart phones and technological gadgets, it is now becoming increasingly difficult for parents to limit screen time for their children. 

Screen management is now, therefore, the talk of the hour and a lot of parents are now putting down rules and guidelines for themselves and their families when it comes to it. We have put together some broad guidelines for you to follow:

1. Set an example 

Children pick up the habits of their parents, if you are constantly glued to your gadgets, you can't expect your children to do otherwise. It is all good to tell your children to put down their gadgets but how easy is it for you, to also put down your phone or resist the urge of looking at an email. Let’s get this straight. For us to set screen time rules inside the house, we need to practice the same.

2. Set limited viewing times

It is helpful if you allocate time and days for using gadgets. This would help in limiting the use of them. 

3. Encourage outdoor play.

Playing with your child is necessary not only it will make them physically fit in their growing up but will also help increase bonding between the parent and child.

4. Screen time shouldn't always be alone time.  

Co-view, co-play and co-engage with your children when they are using screens— it encourages social interactions, bonding, and learning. Watch a show with them; you will have the opportunity to introduce and share your own life experiences and perspectives—and guidance. Don't just monitor them online—interact with them, so you can understand what they are doing and be a part of it. 

5. Don't use technology as an emotional pacifier. 

Media can be very effective in keeping kids calm and quiet, but it should not be the only way they learn to calm down. Children need to be taught how to identify and handle strong emotions, come up with activities to manage boredom, or calm down through breathing, talking about ways to solve the problem, and finding other strategies for channeling emotions.

6. Create “tech-free” zones at home 

There should be areas in your house that should be tech-free, like the dining area, the living room or any other area where the family gathers together. 

7. Refrain from putting TV and electronic gadgets in your child’s bedroom 

Setting up a TV or any other electronic gadget in your child’s bedroom will hamper their sleep, wherein they may use these gadgets till the late hours of night,  distract them from homework and other activities. 

At the end of the day, remember, each family is different and the rules set in each house are also not the same as another. As long as the family is united in the desire to spend time together and bond with each other on a regular basis, it is fine. 

However, in the process, don’t forget to laugh, smile and have loads of fun!

JASMIN KUMAR 

?The author is an Early Child Care Consultant & Vice-Chairperson, Rayz International Preschool, Noida.)