Reducing Screen Time in the New Year

In today’s world, we are surrounded by screens. From waking up with the help of cell phone alarms to winding down with streaming movies, staring at screens throughout the day is almost a given. However, this amount of screen time is unhealthy for adults and harmful for children. Children can be distracted from reading, doing homework, and exploring other types of play. Those who rely on screens for entertainment have a higher rate of obesity as adults. Here are our tips for reducing screen time in the new year:

Model Healthy Habits

If you spend hours sitting in front of the television or staring at your phone, you may not be setting the best example. Take time to think about what you would be doing if you had no tablet, television, or cell phone. Limiting your own screen time may lead to increased quality of life for you, as well as your child. Consider ways to spend more time on analog activities, and encourage your child to do the same. 

Encourage Other Activities

Start by turning off the TV so you and your child can adjust to the lack of background noise. Build a puzzle with your child, or teach them how to play your favorite board game. Take your child out for a walk, and let him explore the neighborhood. This will result in more quality time as a family, as well as a reduction in screen time. Another way to reduce screen time is to make the technology less available.

Remove Screens from the Bedroom

Depending on how your house is set up, it may just be easier to throw a television and gaming console into your child’s room. However, this can lead to unhealthy habits. If you remove the screen from his room, you will be able to monitor screen time. Having screens in the bedroom can also lead to late-night streaming and gaming, which can interfere with your child’s sleep. Consider removing the screens from your own room to set an example for your child. Keep in mind, your child may see the reduction in screen time as a punishment, not as a positive lifestyle change.

Explain the Benefits

Talk to your child about why reducing screen time is beneficial. Remind him that other types of entertainment are out there and can be even better than online videos and videogames. Emphasize that the whole family is looking to reduce screen time to make life better. No matter what you say, expect a little bit of pushback, and be prepared to answer questions. At St. Teresa Catholic School, we believe that time away from screens is essential for healthy child development.

With over 57 years of academic excellence, St. Teresa Catholic School, a Titusville private school, provides a quality education that challenges and empowers students to develop to their full potential. Students foster qualities that are essential for lifelong learning and are equipped for future success. To learn more about why St. Teresa is the perfect fit for you and your student, contact us today.