As working parents, balancing career and home responsibilities becomes a challenging task. You often feel like carving out more quality time with your kids, whether preparing healthy meals, going to a park, or looking after their lessons.

There is another common issue most parents are battling today, and that is ‘screen time’. And you, being an employed parent, find it complicated to deal with it. Worry not; this blog will help you overcome the problem.

First, let us understand why digital screens have become integral to kids.

• Accessibility: In past generations, access to technology was limited. Today, with smartphones, tablets, and devices immersed into everyday life, screens are readily available and, in your absence, often the first point of entertainment or information.
• Education and learning: From interactive apps and educational games to online resources and virtual classrooms, screens have become integrated aspects of learning. Digital tools offer attractive ways to engage and absorb information.
• Social connection and identity: Social media platforms, online gaming communities, and video chat apps enable kids to connect with friends and family and even build online communities. This connectivity fulfils social needs and helps their sense of belonging and identity.
• Entertainment: From on-demand video streaming to interactive games, these are highly appealing to kids compared to other activities.
• Creativity: It is also to be noted that digital tools can be used for creative expression. From animation and digital art to music creation and online storytelling, screens offer avenues for kids to explore their creativity and share it with the world.

Well, even though the screens help your child, overusing them is unhealthy. Here are some of the worst impacts of digital exposure on children.

1. Sleep disruption: Blue light from screens interferes with melatonin production, leading to poor sleep quality and daytime fatigue.
2. Physical inactivity: Excessive screen time displaces physical activity, increasing risks for obesity, poor muscle development, and low endurance.
3. Social-emotional difficulties: Limited face-to-face interaction can hinder social skills development, emotional regulation, and empathy.
4. Decreased Attention Span: Children who spend excessive amounts of time on digital gadget usage may struggle to focus on other activities that need long, uninterrupted attention.
5. Exposure to inappropriate content: Unfiltered access can expose children to harmful or age-inappropriate content, impacting their sense of reality and emotional well-being.

Let's strategize some practical ways to tame the screen time.

1. Be a tech team, not a dictator

Instead of shouting "Screens off!" involve your kids. Instead of imposing strict rules about screen time, work together with your child to set boundaries; this collaborative approach not only inculcates mutual respect and understanding but also empowers your child to make informed decisions about their screen usage.

2. Unleash the Fun Monster!

Offer engaging alternatives that rival the allure of screens. Think arts and crafts, board games, building forts, etc. Get creative and make fun a family affair. A simple walk or bike ride in the evenings can do wonders.

For creative activities, you can prepare a colourful journal with their favourite cartoon character pictures on it. As per your little one’s hobbies and likes, prepare a daily activity schedule and let them tick them off once completed. This will help you keep them engaged in non-screen activities.

3. Technology can be your friend

Use Parental controls to keep your kids safe online. This tool can immensely help you in your absence. There are built-in options with the devices as well as dedicated apps for more comprehensive features. You can tailor the settings as per the child’s age. Here are some key features to consider;

• Block websites and apps based on categories like violence, gambling, and adult content.
• Set daily or weekly screentime limits for devices or specific apps.
• Approve or block app downloads and in-app purchases.
• Tracking your child’s device location can be helpful at times.
• See websites visited, apps used, and online activity to identify potential issues.

4. Lead by Example

We all know kids are excellent mimics. So, please put down your phone when you're with them. Engage in honest conversations, play, or read a book together. Show them the joy of connecting without screens.

5. Celebrate Victories, Big and Small

Did your child spend less time on screens today? Did they choose a book over a game? Acknowledge and celebrate these wins! Positive reinforcement goes a long way in maintaining healthy habits.

6. Seeking Professional Help

If you’re struggling to manage your child’s screen time, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A child psychologist or a counsellor can provide valuable insights and practical strategies to address this issue.

Age-Specific Tips

Equip yourselves with some age-specific battle tactics to overcome screen time woes.

Toddlers (2-5):

• Engage their senses: Playdough, finger paints, water tables, sensory bins - anything that ignites their curiosity and keeps their little hands busy.
• Sing, dance, and move: Get active with silly songs, dance to their favourite songs, or walk to a nearby park.
• Read together: Make story time interactive with funny voices and sound effects, and letting them read along. Choose books with vibrant pictures and engaging stories.

School-Age Kids (6-10):

• Get crafty: Unleash their creativity with art projects, board games, building block challenges, or DIY science experiments.
• Explore the outdoors: Nature walks, bike rides, or even backyard camping adventures offer endless fun and fresh air.
• Encourage hobbies: Music, sports, or even learning a new language can provide a sense of accomplishment and spark their passions.

Adolescents (11-18):

• Family game nights: Challenge each other with board games or indoor games.
• Volunteer together: Give back to your community and help them discover the joy of helping others.
• Encourage real-world connections: Foster positive social interactions through clubs, sports teams, or even organizing game nights with friends.
• Offer choices: Instead of a simple "no," give them two screen-free options to choose from.
• Set clear expectations: Discuss screen time limits beforehand and stick to them consistently.
• Be empathetic: Acknowledge their disappointment but explain your reasons calmly and firmly.

Conclusion

Managing screen time for children is a challenge for many working parents. But with understanding, patience, and the right strategies, it’s a challenge you can overcome. Remember, the goal isn’t to eliminate screen time but to ensure it’s used in a balanced and meaningful way.

If you have any different screen time tips, do share.

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