Is your child spending more time staring at a screen than playing? From 2019-2021, average daily screen use (TV, tablet, smartphone, or video game) jumped to 5:33 from 4:44 hours among tweens, and up to 8:39 from 7:22 hours among teens, according to Common Sense Media’s 2021 study. While media exposure can be beneficial, research abounds on how much and what subject matter is appropriate for children.
More studies sound the alarms
Childhood obesity rates are high. The CDC reports that as of 2020, 19.7 percent of children ages 2 to 19 in America are obese. That’s up from 18.5 percent in 2016. Experts say it’s because kids aren’t getting enough exercise and eating a healthy diet. Too much screen time — whether it be in front of a TV, computer, or video game — is part of the problem.
Critics note that it is very difficult to prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship between media exposure and emotional and behavioral problems. But savvy parents should certainly be on the lookout for signs of behavioral changes in their children and adjust media exposure accordingly.
Guidelines for managing your child’s media consumption
1. Know your kids and know your values
If your child complains that all his friends are watching a particular TV show that contains a lot of sex and or violence, explain what your values are and why you are sticking to them. Or if you know your child is more prone to nightmares than his friend, exercise caution in letting him watch scary shows, even if all his friends are watching them.
2. Be conscious of age-appropriateness
What’s ok for eight isn’t ok for four. Use your judgment and consult media reviews. Be aware that although several companies are marketing videos for babies and toddlers, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no television for children under the age of two. And a PG-13 rating on a movie doesn’t necessarily mean that all 13 year olds are ready to see it or that younger children shouldn’t see it. It’s a guideline and it’s up to you to decide.
3. Keep media out of kids’ bedrooms
It’s much easier to exercise control when your child is within view. So that means keeping video games, the TV and the computer in a common area where you can keep an eye on things.
4. Set family rules and stick to them
Set guidelines. You could say, for example, that watching TV is OK from 7 to 9 p.m. or after the homework is done or only on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Consistency through the years is also important. If you are a permissive parent for the first six years, it makes it harder to switch that off later.
5. Limit screen time
While most experts recommend no more than one to two hours of screen time per day, most kids are in front of a screen 45 hours per week. Kids need to have time to go outside and play, and pull from other experiences besides the media.
6. Use technology to control the media
Netflix, Hulu, and DVRs make it easier to control what is on and when. All of these are great tools because a parent can hit the pause button, talk to their kids, and discuss certain scenes or behaviors as they are happening.
7. Set family viewing time
Have regular family movie nights and use them as opportunities to watch together and discuss. Be on the alert for teachable moments. Pose questions like “Why do you think the characters are being mean to each other?”
Need help? Common Sense Media has thousands of reviews of movies, TV shows, websites, books, and apps. The organization is continually adding to the site with new reviews each week. Another great tip is to steer your kids toward forms of media that actively engage them, such as audio storytelling. The act of listening to a story builds listening skills and trains a child to concentrate and give his undivided attention. And if you’re still struggling, discuss your concerns with your pediatrician. We are here to help.
The Medical Associates Department of Pediatrics provides care for patients 18 years of age and younger. We offer services including diagnosis and treatment of infectious disease, chronic illness, and physical problems associated with children, including well child services such as growth and development counseling, periodic check-ups and dietary assistance to maintain good health. Special problems including weight control, anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and others, are also treated. Call 563-584-3440 (East Campus) or 563-584-4440 (West Campus) to schedule an appointment.
Sources:
Common Sense Media
CDC
