As parents and educators, our role in guiding children through the digital age is more crucial than ever. At Podar Prep Preschool, we’re committed to helping parents make informed choices about screen time and its impact on young minds. Let’s delve into some key factors highlighting the importance of responsible screen usage for our children.
#Factor 1- Start Early with Caution: The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against technology exposure for infants aged 0-2 years. The rapid brain development during this stage is highly vulnerable, and excessive screen exposure can have lasting consequences. Parents must resist the temptation of handing screens to their little ones during these crucial years.
#Factor 2– Monitor and Limit: Setting strict screen time limits is essential for children aged 3-5 years. Limiting screen time to one hour daily ensures that children have a balanced daily routine, including physical activity, face-to-face interactions, and exploration.
#Factor 3- Content: The content children engage with is equally important. Non-violent and pro-social content should be the norm. Violent or abusive content can influence behaviour, as children learn through imitation. Engaging with your child during screen time allows for meaningful discussions and reinforces social skills.
#Factor 4- Sleep: Excessive screen time before bedtime can disrupt sleep patterns due to the blue light emitted by screens. Quality sleep is vital for a child’s growth and development. Establishing a screen-free period of at least three hours before bedtime ensures better sleep quality.
#Factor 5- Mindful Meal Times: Meals are not just about nourishing the body; they’re sensory experiences. Screen time during meals can hinder the sensory process, affecting digestion and potentially leading to obesity issues. Encourage children to focus on their food’s colours, tastes, and textures.
#Factor 6- Balanced Activity: After screen time, engage your child in physical activities like jumping or skipping. This helps transition the brain from high-focus screen mode to a more relaxed state, reducing tantrums and restlessness. It is essential for physical and cognitive development. Ensure your child gets at least three hours of activity daily.
#Factor 7: Be the Role Model: Children observe and emulate their parents’ behaviours. If you want to encourage responsible screen usage, set an example by moderating your screen time.
#Factor 8: No Screen Pacifiers: Using screens to pacify children during tantrums or as babysitters can hinder emotional bonding and emotional intelligence development.
Remember, screen time is a powerful tool that can shape our children’s futures. Just as we wouldn’t expose them to harmful substances, we should be equally cautious about their screen exposure. By making informed choices, we can ensure our children become responsible digital citizens.
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