Technology plays a major role in our daily lives, from work tasks to school learning. Even children now use iPads and tablets for both educational purposes and homework. With technology’s social and educational benefits, the question arises: How do we best manage screen time for our kids, especially when technology is so integrated into their lives? Here’s something surprising: managing screen time doesn’t just involve setting time limits.
Bahar Altaha, MD, a child and adolescent psychiatrist with Banner Behavioral Health, shared expert advice on how to guide kids and teens in using technology responsibly—and how parents can play an active role in managing screen time.
Screen time limits: Why it’s not just about time
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen time for children to no more than two hours a day. However, this recommendation is challenging for many families to follow. According to Dr. Altaha, “Kids are using technology in classrooms, and high schoolers often wear Bluetooth devices to listen to music or watch YouTube videos during school. This can lead to much more than two hours, often reaching 8 to 11 hours of technology usage per day.”
So, how can parents address this? Dr. Altaha suggested having an open conversation with your child or teen about technology use and agreeing upon screen time limits. If technology is being overused, parental controls can be put in place to limit app usage. For instance, once the screen time is up, the app will require a password to continue.
Model good tech behavior
Parents play an essential role in modeling proper screen time habits. If you’re out for a family walk, yet you’re still scrolling through social media or texting friends, your child could interpret this as acceptable behavior. Dr. Altaha advised, “Children are strongly influenced by the way you use screens and are likely to copy that behavior. Setting time limits is important but knowing how and when to use technology is equally vital.”
Here are a few tips for modeling good tech behavior:
- Sit down as a family and work together to create a family media plan. This gives children a voice in the process and helps them feel invested in it.
- Avoid bringing your phone, tablet or laptop into your bedroom, and encourage your children to do the same.
- If you receive a text while speaking to your child or spouse, wait until the conversation is finished before checking your device. This demonstrates the importance of being present.
Co-view, co-play, and co-engage: Enjoy screen time together
Screen time doesn’t have to be a solitary activity. Spend time with your kids playing video games, watching TV or engaging with apps. Dr. Altaha emphasized that these shared experiences could offer valuable opportunities for bonding and teaching good behavior.
- Play video games with your kids to help teach good sportsmanship and proper gaming etiquette.
- Watch shows together and discuss the plot or characters afterward.
- Read books or explore educational apps on the tablet to connect with your child.
Educate yourself and your child about technology
Remember the TV series 13 Reasons Why? According to the National Institutes of Health, the show was linked to a 28.9% increase in suicide rates among U.S. youth ages 10-17 in the month following its release. This tragic statistic highlights the potential dangers of harmful media content.
Dr. Altaha stressed the importance of educating yourself about the media your child consumes: “Violence, scary movies, and negative online behaviors like cyberbullying can significantly affect a child’s behavior and mood. It’s important for parents to monitor the platforms, apps and software their children use to avoid unpleasant surprises.” While video games may not be your interest, understanding their ratings and knowing what your kids are watching is a vital step.
Finding a balance: Screen time and family time
In today’s world, digital devices are an essential part of daily life. But no technology can replace quality face-to-face interaction with your family. Dr. Altaha advised parents to maintain balance by ensuring they spend meaningful, tech-free time with their children. “Make sure you’re spending time with your family while also managing screen time,” she says.
When to seek help
If you’re concerned about your child’s screen time habits or notice behavioral changes related to technology use, it’s important to reach out for support. Banner Health’s child and adolescent specialists can offer guidance on how to handle excessive screen time or any related issues.
Managing screen time requires a proactive approach, and by setting limits, modeling good behavior and staying engaged with your child’s media consumption, you can ensure that technology is a helpful tool rather than a harmful influence.
Recommended reading
- Digital Eye Strain: Tips to Protect Your Child’s Eyes
- Is My Child Getting Enough Exercise? Tips for Parents
- TikTok, Snapchat or Instagram, Is Your Child Ready for Social Media?
