“I think one thing we have to get away from is the concept that screens are toxic… Screens are not inherently toxic. They’re neutral. It’s what we do with them that matters.”

~ Michael Rich, quoted in Mother Jones

The association between children and screen time has been a concern over the last decade, but there has been a boom since the pandemic. What does an increase in screen time mean for our children, and is it a bad thing?

What problems can excessive screen time cause for children?

1.     Attention Problems

Children’s brains and nervous systems are developing at an incredible rate. Their brains are tripling in size during just the first two years. Neurological synapses (connections in the brain) multiply at an unparalleled rate early in life going from about 2,500 at birth to more than 15,000 by around the age of 3.

Many studies show that screen time can impact the learning process, and more specifically their ability to be attentive.

2.    Digital Therapy

Much like with food, experts recommend avoiding screens as a source of comfort or consolation. This is because in the long run, children can use this as an aid to regulate their emotions rather than knowing how to regulate emotions on their own.

3.    Sleep Quality

Studies consistently show that screen use is associated with a reduction in both sleep quality and quantity. This one is simple as the worse your child sleeps, the worse all their functions will be. Continued exposure to screens is associated with more irregular sleep schedules, less sleep overall, and a delayed onset of sleep (i.e. it takes longer to fall asleep).

So, what can we do about it?

1.     Prioritise Time for Non-Screen Activities

You could create a list of non-screen time activities so when you need some entertainment, you have ideas easily on hand. This could include outside play, board games, soft play, puzzles, playground games, reading time and the list goes on! A key point to keep in mind, and what all the research has in common, is that it’s best practice to avoiding screen time during meals and in the winding down to bedtime.

2.    Use the Nudge Factor

Screen time can very easily become a habit, and habits can be built (and changed) using very small and subtle adjustments. One way you can use this to your advantage is by making certain behaviours less desirable. For example, try hiding the television remote, keeping tablets or iPads out of reach, turning devices off and avoiding having screens light up, turning off notifications or using parental controls.

3.    Be Aware of Your Own Use

The point that can be difficult to consider is that one’s own behaviour will most often have the greatest influence on a child’s behaviour. Studies are consistently showing that parents are on their phones while they are with their kids…and kids notice. In today’s world, everything is controlled through our phones, so it is increasingly hard to step away from them. However, the affects they can have on our children is profound.

When we take a step back, perhaps the debate on screen time for children is misplaced entirely. Isn’t it easier to focus on how we are doing first, and then reflect on how our children can do better as well?

Heal > Adapt > Evolve