Managing screen time for your children

It has become almost impossible to survive in this digital world without a phone. Everywhere you turn, someone is holding a device. And our children are no different.

And even though we know the negative effects of too much screen time on our physical, mental and emotional health, we still struggle to put the phones down.

So where do you start?

As your child’s primary caregiver, you need to establish habits and behaviours that lead to less time spent with these distractions.

Here are some ways you can set limits and access to how much time your kids spend with electronics:

Let them earn it

In today’s world of instant gratification, children will always go for what they need without earning it. Parents are guilty of buying things just because their children ask for them.

Let them do some chores before they use a gadget. That way they will grow up understanding that nothing in this life is free and you have to work for what you want.

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You could also allow them to use it only if what they’re doing is productive and not just for entertainment.

Set rules

Take your role as a parent and set boundaries and rules for them to follow. Share this information with relatives and nannies to ensure it is enforced wherever your child goes, helping to instil control and healthy use of electronics.

And just because you’re busy or feel guilty about letting them down, don’t be a pushover.

Set time limits, decide which days they can and can’t use it, don’t set up screen time zones such as at the dining table, no TV in the bedroom and only allow age-appropriate content.

Be a role model

You are your child’s first teacher, so you need to model positive digital habits for them to emulate. You can’t expect your kids not to throw tantrums and beg for gadgets if you’re binge-watching your favourite Netflix series and scrolling through your phone every moment.

If they see you reading or having a conversation with your spouse or older children, chances are they will model that behaviour.

Offer alternatives

When kids are bored, the easiest distraction is usually Candy Crush on their phones or video games. Point them towards healthier alternatives such as going to the park to play, jump rope or read a book.

Encourage them not to become dependent on electronics for entertainment, but give them alternatives that they can still enjoy and, if possible, participate in.

Help them understand

In the same way that you teach your child how to cross the street safely, what to do if they’re approached by a stranger and why they shouldn’t eat too many sweets, you should put the same energy into helping them understand the dangers of constant screen time. Online safety and how it can disrupt and affect their sleep, mealtimes and social skills.