Hi #ParentPlatoon! It’s me, Dr. Eboni. It’s been awhile, but I wanted to check in on you, considering all that is going on! During these unprecedented times, working towards a “new normal” is critical. We must adjust to survive and come out on the other side as unscathed as possible.
Increased screen time may be one of those things that may be a part of your “new normal”. It has been for our family. Limiting our children’s screen time is still important. This is not something we should feel bad about or guilt ourselves for. We have so many other things to focus on and this is not something we should worry ourselves about.
I would like for you to consider ways to make your child’s screen time more meaningful and engaged. Using video chat platforms such as Duo, FaceTime, and Skype are great ways to help your children stay connected while practicing social distancing. The key to maximizing screen time is to make it as engaging and interactive as possible.
7 Tips Regarding Use of Screen Time
1. Continue your child’s regular routine. Maintaining your child’s routine is more important now than ever. Ensure that increases in screen time do not disrupt your child’s routine. Having a consistent routine in place is critical for your child and your entire family. It is important to keep important routines including wake time, bedtime, mealtimes, and outdoor time as consistent as possible.
2. Use screen time together as a family. Watching a show or movie together can be fun and relaxing. You’ll have the opportunity to discuss what you’ve watched and explain anything that may be unclear to your child.
3. Use social media to connect with others. Social media may be a great way to virtually check in with family members and friends as well as to stay up to date on important information such as school closures.
4. Consider using video chat to stay connected. Using platforms such as FaceTime, Google Duo, Skype, and Zoom may help your kids practice social distancing while interacting with friends from school and other loved ones. Check out Zero to Three’s Tips to Make the Most of Video Chats.
5. Choose high quality content from trusted sources. Common Sense Media provides resources including ideas for online playdates and other helpful ways to socialize at a distance , recommendations for dance games, and movement apps.
6. Use screen time to continue learning. Many schools have provided online/distance learning tools for students. Be sure to contact your child’s teacher, check your child’s school’s website and social media for provided or recommended educational activities. Younger children may not have online learning curriculum to share, but consider free options such as KiwiCo for at-home resources with activities by age and PBS Kids which is sending out a daily newsletter with show and activity ideas.
7. Stay active! Be sure that increases in screen time do not decrease your child’s physical activity. Instead, use it to get more active! Consider having a dance party, doing yoga or other exercise while streaming a favorite song or exercise lesson.
While increased screen time may happen, consider these tips to limit screen time. Limiting screen time is still important.
6 Tips to Limit Screen Time:
1. Schedule screen time. It may be helpful to schedule screen time like other parts of the day such as time for schoolwork, mealtime or bedtime.
2. Schedule screen free times. Ensure that certain times during the day are device free such as dinner time or a specific night of the week.
3. Avoid screen time within one hour of bedtime. Night-time exposure to electronic devices suppresses melatonin and disrupts the sleep cycle. It also activates the brain and it takes more time to settle down to sleep.
4. Require children to charge their devices outside of their bedroom. It may be helpful to have all family members charge their devices in a central location like the kitchen.
5. No televisions, computers, tablets in your child’s bedroom. This allows you to better monitor your child’s screen time and helps to avoid using screens during sleep times.
6. Limit your own screen time as to be a positive role model. We set the example for our kids. If our children see us being active, reading a book, etc. they are more likely to do the same.
Thank you for reading this blog post #ParentPlatoon. You can schedule a time to speak with me 1-on-1 for FREE regarding your child’s development, behavior and or parenting challenges here: www.timewithdreboni.com.
Until next time, take good care! ~Dr. Eboni
