In many ways, the time that we live in today is like an experiment that is based on how technology will affect society. Nowadays, computers and cell phones are everywhere. There have never been so many screens available, and with so many of them, you can almost see anything you like at any time. For parents wondering whether TV screen time could affect their kids, we have entered a whole new level! Have kids become too reliant on screens? What is the recommended amount of screen time for children? In America, most parents wonder from time to time if screen time is appropriate for their children. Here are some basic recommendations for children’s screen time limits and some effects that screen time has on them. You can also try a blackout with your kids if you think they spend too much time on the screen.

What is a comfortable amount of screen time?

Including personal computers, iPads, tablets, televisions, gaming devices, and even phones are included in screen time.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has released information on how much screen time is “the right amount” for children, as it has been recognized that face-to-face interactions with others are the most effective means of learning.

• Screen time is not recommended for children under the age of 2 years. Cartoons and make-believe are indistinguishable from real life for children at this age. Skype or Facetime apps have become an acceptable part of children’s lives at this age since they include face-to-face interaction and social interaction with others, such as grandparents.
• Children between 2 and 5 years old – less than 1 hour daily
• The recommended time is two hours per day for children aged five and older. Due to the increasing use of digital media, it may not always be possible to achieve this, so it is recommended to teach children about responsible use of technology and monitor their “quality” of electronic use. Using all forms of digital media is not equal, just like eating all calories equals consuming all of them. Establish digital screen time limits for your child and engage with him or her online.

In what ways do parents express concern about screen time?

It is not until adolescence that parents become concerned about the hours their teenagers spend on social media and their phones to worry about this habit. Several studies have shown that teenagers spend at least six hours per day on screens, and they are often worried about missing out on something when they are on their screens. Teens and parents often come to me to discuss how to acknowledge social media, texting, etc., while maintaining a balance so that teens gain quality sleep.

Is too much screen time, or screen addiction, proven to have negative consequences for children? How does it affect you emotionally? Do you think a child’s developing brain is affected?

Numerous studies have shown that excessive screen time can harm children

The light from a screen can cause sleep disturbances because it interferes with the production of melatonin. A trick to trick the body into setting its sleep clock later can achieve the goal of releasing melatonin later. Poor sleep can be problematic and lead to behavioral problems, mood disorders, and emotional dysregulation.

Games can cause the release of more of the “feel-good” chemical in the brain, causing children to lose their sensitivity to rewards. The result will be that they become less focused and motivated and require more stimulation to feel pleasure. Screen time is associated with children being less attentive, more aggressive, and less able to self-soothe.

The amount of screen time children spend outdoors reducing the amount of time they spend exercising. Time spent outside reduces stress and increases attention, according to research.

Overuse of electronic devices is associated with problems in the brain’s frontal lobe caused by overstimulation and hyperarousal. Mood and behavior disorders can then result from this.

Despite the perception that children are “talking” or “playing with” others while watching television, screen time isn’t interactive. However, the social skills are not developed as they would be through face-to-face interaction. Social interactions can be complex for children who are more comfortable with screens.

In my experience as a parent, when it comes to screen time, there is a term known as metabolic syndrome. What is that all about?

Teenage screen time is associated with metabolic syndrome, according to research. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are all issues caused by metabolic syndrome. The metabolic syndrome risk increases as daily screen time grows, regardless of physical activity level.

This habit entails little physical activity and little movement. Will this affect our psychological health in the long run?

Whatever the reason for children’s lack of physical activity, they are at risk for mental health problems. In addition to preventing mental health issues like anxiety and depression, physical activity improves the abilities of children to focus, pay attention, learn, and sleep.

How can you limit your kid’s screen time?

The first step for parents who wish to limit their children’s screen time is to examine their usage. In most cases, parents don’t think about the role they play for their children and how they view screen time. Using screen time as a means of relaxing teaches children that it can be used to calm or soothe children. The number of children using screens for entertainment is concerning and what percentage of adults do since they are unable to spend time with their children. Having a family screen time policy and everyone adhering to it is helpful

1. Creating technology-free zones in the home, such as the dinner table, is a good idea.
2. Make sure to turn off devices when spending time with your family.
3. The television should not be used as a “background.”
4. A minimum of 1 hour before bedtime should be spent without screens. Since screens interfere with sleep, children should not have screens in their bedrooms.
5. Physical activity or outdoor time should always follow screen time. It is important to balance screen time with more healthy activities, such as family games, reading, outdoor activities, crafts, etc.
6. Children should not spend all of their time watching screens during playdates. The time you spend doing other activities should at least be 50%.
7. Distractions and calming techniques shouldn’t be used when your child is watching screens. Instead, it would be best if you taught them to solve problems (how to plan), how to calm down, etc. Consider bringing your child’s activity with him/her to appointments when possible.
8. Screen time is not allowed before school.
9. Be consistent when stopping the child’s screen time if they become upset. Recognize their anger, but do not succumb to their frustration. As an alternative, suggest another toy or activity.
10. Let children use technology in common areas at home.