Is Screen time altogether bad?

Screens have become a part of our daily life and it is highly doubtful that they are going to go away anytime soon! Constantly telling our children about how bad screen time is can lead to confusion as they might begin to wonder why you are giving them screen time it in the first place and continue to use devices yourselves. So, it is very important to help them build a balanced relationship with it.

Here are some pros and cons of screen time:

Pros:

  1. Educational Benefits: Screen time can provide access to educational apps, videos, and games that can be both fun and educational for kids. Children can learn new skills and acquire knowledge in a more engaging and interactive way through these resources (applicable especially for older children)
  2. Social Interaction: Some electronic devices, such as smartphones and tablets, allow children to connect with family and friends who may be far away. (Building connection with grandparents if you are in another city/ country) Additionally, some online games or apps can offer opportunities for social interaction, collaboration, and teamwork.
  3. Entertainment: Screen time can provide kids with entertainment options such as movies, TV shows, and video games, which can help them catch a break.

Cons:

  1. Health Risks: Excessive screen time can lead to various health problems, such as obesity, eye strain, and poor sleep quality. Additionally, children who spend too much time on electronic devices may miss out on physical activity, which can affect their overall health and well being.
  2. Addiction: Children can become addicted to screens, which can lead to problems such as poor academic performance, social isolation, and behavioral issues.
  3. Exposure to Inappropriate Content: Children can inadvertently be exposed to inappropriate content such as violence, sexual material, or hate speech while browsing or searching the internet. This can have negative effects on their emotional development and worldview.
  4. Lack of Face-to-Face Interaction: Spending too much time on electronic devices can limit a child's opportunities to develop social skills, such as empathy and communication, which are essential for building meaningful relationships.

How to talk to your children about screens?

TV and other devices with screen cannot be projected as villains to our kids. They will be using them for research, online classes, entertainment etc as they continue to grow up. Hence they need to have a balanced relationship with it.

Modelling balanced screen time is the best way to go about it. (Source: Curious Parenting Blog)

Here are some ways you can model a healthy way to view screens:

  1. I have viewed the screen for a long time now, I deserve a break! I don’t want to tire my eyes.
  2. I enjoyed watching this movie with you, Come let us go out and play. Our legs need to move!
  3. I keeping my phone away now, I think I used it quite a lot today. Let me go pick up a book now.
  4. My brain definitely needs a break from the screen, I’m going out for a walk.