Bikhar ECCD Centre, Trashigang

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Navigating the digital world with children is a challenge for many parents, as excessive screen time can have significant negative effects on a child's development. Yet, setting clear limits and promoting a balanced lifestyle are important for a child's physical, mental and social well-being. Too much screen exposure, especially at a young age, can be linked to a range of developmental and health issues: 1. A sedentary lifestyle due to excessive screen time can contribute to a higher risk of childhood obesity. Staring at screens for long periods can also cause eye strain, headaches and even an increased risk of nearsightedness. 2. The blue light emitted from screens can disrupt the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Using screens close to bedtime can make it difficult for children to fall asleep and can lead to a less regular sleep schedule. 3. Studies have linked excessive screen time to behavioral problems like increased irritability, hyperactivity and difficulty concentrating. For very young children, passive screen consumption can hinder cognitive development by reducing opportunities for imaginative play, hands-on learning and problem-solving. 4. Heavy reliance on screens can limit face-to-face interactions, which are essential for developing social skills, empathy and the ability to read non-verbal cues. This can lead to decreased real-world social interactions and family bonding time. 5. For infants and toddlers, excessive screen time can negatively impact language development. When a TV is on in the background, parents tend to talk less to their children and children are less likely to learn from a screen than from direct, human interaction. Considering these challenges, the key to managing screen time is not just about enforcing a specific number of hours but about creating a balanced family media plan that prioritizes quality content and real-world activities. Here are some guidelines and strategies parents can implement: 1. Under 18 months: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends avoiding screen media entirely, with the exception of video chatting with family. 2. 18 to 24 months: Screen time should be limited to high-quality educational programming and should be co-viewed with a caregiver. 3. 2 to 5 years: The AAP suggests limiting non-educational screen time to about one hour per day on weekdays and up to three hours on weekend days. The focus should be on educational content and co-viewing. 4. 6 and older: For this age group, the emphasis shifts from strict time limits to encouraging healthy habits. The goal is to ensure screen time does not interfere with sleep, physical activity, schoolwork, or social interactions. Practical Strategies for Parents: Create a Family Media Plan: Involve your children in creating a plan that outlines rules for screen use. This plan can cover when, where, and what kind of content is allowed. Treating it like any other household rule can reduce conflict and clarify expectations. Establish Screen-Free Zones and Times: Make certain areas, like the dining table, and certain times, like family meals, completely screen-free. This promotes conversation and strengthens family bonds. Remove Screens from Bedrooms: Keeping TVs, computers, and smartphones out of a child's bedroom can help improve sleep and reduce the temptation for late-night use. It also makes it easier for parents to monitor content. Promote Other Activities: Offer a variety of non-screen alternatives, such as outdoor play, reading, creative arts, and board games. Having a list of these "activity menus" can help children choose something else when they are bored. Model Healthy Screen Use: Children learn by example. Parents should be mindful of their own screen habits and put away their devices during family time to show that real-world interaction is a priority. Focus on Content and Context: The quality of screen time matters more than the raw minutes. Prioritize interactive and educational content and engage with your children by discussing what they are watching or playing. This "active mediation" is more effective than simply restricting access. Be Consistent and Compassionate: It's normal for children to push back against new rules. It's important to be consistent and firm, but also to acknowledge their feelings. By sticking to the plan, they will eventually adjust to the new routine.

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