Limiting Your Child's Screen Time
  

New habits die hard! Find out why it's so important to limit "screen time" to your young child.
 

by L.J. Anderson, MPH, RN

Does it seem that your kids are born TV-watchers? The problem is that many children are exposed to TV and videos at a very early age. And these days, kids have nearly constant access to computers, video games and other devices. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, in a typical day, 83 percent of children aged 6 and under use screen media.

The Risks of Screen Time

University of Washington pediatric researcher Dimitri Christakis, M.D., believes television viewing can over-stimulate the brain for children under three. And TV-watching can have a negative impact down the road. According to a study published in Pediatrics, antisocial behavior in children ages 7 to 10 was associated with viewing of violent TV programs in children ages 2 to 5 years old.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that infants and toddlers be encouraged to enjoy outdoor physical activity and unstructured play under the supervision of a responsible adult caregiver. Activities include walking through parks or zoos and free play out doors. Physical activity classes in the early years have been associated with lower levels of physical activity in later years.

Finding Solutions

Remember, the patterns you set for your young children can turn into lasting habits. So planning a strategy to limit screen time now can have a positive influence on your child's mental, physical and social development for years to come.

Here are some strategies to consider:

Chart your family's TV viewing, recommends the AAP, preview programs; and choose only those that build interest in other activities.

Select a day care facility that limits screen time. Only nine states regulate the amount of screen time allowed during day care.

Establish family rules and limits about TV use. Keep it off at certain times such as meals. Common Sense Media suggests that children get in the habit of asking permission before watching TV; when they do watch, they should be limited to one program, then asked to turn it off.

Encourage playing with blocks to enhance creativity.

Read, read, read to your children. Visit the library together often.

Incorporate walking or biking into your child's routine. Even if your child rides with you in a bike seat or trailer at first, getting used to outdoor activities and watching you be active helps set positive habits.

Watch your own TV viewing! Remember, you're a role model for your children. The average American watches over four hours of TV every day. If you're at that number, try to cut it down!

Know what they are watching. You might not be able to prevent all TV/video watching, but at this age you should be able to control it. Look for recommended videos and screen TV programs carefully. Remember that commercials can have a big impact on young children - often encouraging them to seek out unhealthy food options.

LJ Anderson is a freelance health and medical writer in the San Francisco Bay Area. She has degrees in nursing and public health, and has written for numerous print and online publications.

Courtesy of StayWell