However, it can also create problems when there is no regulated screen time. According to UNICEF, 41% of parents of 12-15 year olds find it hard to control their child’s screen time. Knowing these handy tips can help you and your child navigate your way around healthy screen time. 

Set the standard

While regulating screen time for your children is a good place to start and having a plan that will help you implement this, setting the example is the best way for children to learn. Learning healthy habits when it comes to your own screen time can make it easier for your child to follow. Limiting the need to have the TV on as a background distraction or using your phone during meals or family times is a starting point. Exploring activities that fall outside of watching TV or a phone can also assist with making the adjustments you need. 

Strike a balance with the type of content you consume

How much screen time is enough screen time is a common question that is asked by parents, especially when it comes to toddlers. This will differ for each family depending on access and the routine you would like your child to follow. However, a general rule of thumb is to limit screen time between 1 - 3 hours a day.

Breaking these up into small intervals such as 30 minutes before encouraging them to engage in a physical activity can help strike a balance between screen time and engaging with their environment. Curating your child's screen time by balancing entertainment with educational videos can come in handy, but make sure that you are aware of the content they consume. Using the parental control features can also help minimize the risk of your child being exposed to inappropriate programming.

Look beyond the screen for entertainment

Being able to set a screen in front of us or a fussy child to keep them entertained while we go about our day can come in handy. However, when this is done frequently instead of setting time to connect as a family it can lead to problems. Finding fun things that you can do with your child or family during the week or weekends that do not require you to engage with a screen can help you touch base. It can also be great for parents who are looking for ways to bond with their child.

Limit screens when winding down

Healthy sleep patterns is crucial for the development and preparing our bodies for the next day. However, lack of sleep due to being overstimulated by a screen before we go to sleep can lead to insomnia which will have an even bigger impact on children. Make sure to avoid using any screens 30 -60 minutes before bedtime. Focus on doing things that can help you and your child unwind, even if it simply means playing white noise in the background to help your child relax.

Start small

Breaking the screen time habits can be tricky, especially when dealing with a toddler. Therefore, slowly introducing changes and setting attainable goals will make the adjustment less frustrating. Focus on cutting their current screen time in half and spreading it out throughout the day. Ask them what fun activities they would like to explore with you if they are older to swap out their screen time. Slowly introducing activities that a toddler can participate in can help reduce the need for a screen to keep them busy.