In today’s digital world, screens are everywhere – from televisions and tablets to smartphones and laptops. While technology offers educational and entertainment benefits, too much screen time can have a negative impact on children’s development, behaviour, and wellbeing. Striking a healthy balance is key to helping children make the most of technology while staying mentally and physically healthy. Here’s how, inspired by the teachings of this independent school in London.
Why Screen time Needs to Be Monitored
Excessive screen time has been linked to various concerns, including disrupted sleep, reduced physical activity, and attention issues. The blue light emitted from screens can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder for children to fall asleep. Long hours spent in front of a screen may also lead to sedentary habits, contributing to issues like childhood obesity.
Moreover, unmonitored access to the internet or certain types of content can influence children’s behaviour and emotions, increasing anxiety, irritability, or even exposure to inappropriate material.
Age-Appropriate Guidelines
The NHS and organisations like the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health suggest that there’s no one-size-fits-all screentime recommendation. Instead, parents should consider the needs of the child, the context in which screens are used, and whether screentime is interfering with other important activities like sleep, exercise, and face-to-face interactions.
As a general rule of thumb:
- Under 2 years: Limited to no screentime, except for video chatting with family.
- 2–5 years: Up to one hour per day of high-quality programming, ideally co-viewed with a parent or carer.
- 6 years and older: Consistent limits should be set to ensure screen use doesn’t replace sleep, physical activity, or family time.
Setting Healthy Boundaries
Establishing boundaries around screentime helps children learn self-regulation and balance. Some practical ways to do this include:
- Create screen-free zones such as the dining table or bedrooms.
- Set a daily schedule that includes plenty of non-screen activities like outdoor play, reading, or creative games.
- Use parental controls to manage access to apps, websites, and screen time limits.
- Model good behaviour – children are more likely to follow screentime rules if they see adults doing the same.
Encouraging Meaningful Screen Use
Not all screen time is created equal. Educational apps, documentaries, creative tools, and video calls with relatives can be positive experiences. Encourage your child to engage in interactive, age-appropriate, and educational content rather than passive or overstimulating media.
Ask questions about what they’re watching or playing to foster critical thinking and conversation. Watching or playing together occasionally can turn screentime into a shared experience, making it more enriching.
Balancing the Modern Lifestyle
In a world where screens are often integral to learning, communication, and entertainment, it’s unrealistic to ban them entirely. Instead, aim to help children understand how to use screens responsibly. It’s about finding a balance that works for your family and promotes healthy habits for life.
