The digital age has transformed the way our children interact with the world. Here are positive strategies to manage their screen use that will help parents navigate this important aspect of modern parenting.
How to manage children's use of screens?
Parental controls to limit access to screens
According to a study by Fitzpatrick et al. (2022) REF [^1^], using parental control tools is essential to regulate access to inappropriate content and limit exposure time. This helps create a safe digital environment for children. Dedicated applications are already available on some platforms.
Recommendations to limit time spent in front of screens
It is best to set clear limits on time spent with digital media. This approach helps balance online activities with other important aspects of development, such as physical play, reading, and social interactions.
Helping adolescents share their screen-related knowledge
Adults should encourage adolescents to talk about what they see and learn on digital platforms. This is an effective way to understand and guide their digital experience.
What strategies can help children get used to screens?
Creating bonds around screens for educational exchanges
Grané et al. (2023) REF [^2^] emphasize the importance of using screens as educational tools to strengthen family bonds and promote learning, through activities such as watching educational documentaries or playing stimulating games.
Protecting our children from inappropriate content on screens
Monitoring and discussing the content children view is mandatory to protect them from the harmful effects of certain digital media.
Parents overwhelmed by managing screens
Resources and support should be provided to parents to help them manage the use of these media in their family. This can include workshops, online guides, and expert advice.
What techniques help get children to accept rules limiting exposure time?
To get children to accept rules limiting exposure time, it is best to:
- Establish clear and consistent rules.
- Involve children in creating these rules.
- Use tools to track screen time.
These strategies, supported by research, help reinforce understanding and acceptance of exposure limits among young children.
Why not demonize screens?
Although these devices can present risks, they also offer learning and development opportunities. Nevertheless, it is also important to understand their impact on behavior, mental health, and cognitive development in young children.
What are the effects of screens on children and adolescents?
The influence of screens on adolescent behavior
Adolescents are particularly sensitive to the influences of digital media. Understanding this influence can help parents guide them toward responsible use of these tools.
How children spend their time on screens
Examining how and why children use these media can help steer their usage toward more positive and enriching activities.
Risks and recommendations related to screen addiction
To manage the risks related to this addiction in children, it is important, among other things:
- To recognize the signs of excessive use.
- To establish a balance between screen time and other activities.
- To consult health professionals if necessary.
These measures help prevent this disorder and encourage a healthy and balanced use of technology.
Effects of screen overuse on children's physical and mental health
Excessive use of these devices can have negative consequences on physical and mental health. This concerns, among other things, sleep, attention, and anxiety.
Use of screens in education
Negative effects of excessive screen exposure on academic performance
This overexposure among children can lead to decreased concentration in class, delays in the development of cognitive skills, sleep disturbances, reduced time devoted to homework, and a negative influence on classroom behavior.
Proper use of screens in the educational environment
The uses of digital media in schools are multiple. Indeed, they can be effective pedagogical tools when used appropriately and in balance.
The role of educators for proper use of digital media
Educators play an essential role. They can help young people develop critical media skills, understand the issues of overuse of these tools, and encourage responsible digital practices.
Recommendations regarding screen exposure from early childhood
For older children, recommendations vary depending on their age group. Between 3 and 6 years, it is tolerated that children have a few minutes of screen exposure per day, although no screen time remains the main recommendation. From 6 to 9 years, exposure time should be limited to one hour per day, for educational purposes, with parental supervision and human interaction.
From 9 to 12 years, educational screens without Internet access are appropriate under supervision. For adolescents aged 12 to 16 years, limited Internet access is possible under adult control, while young people aged 16 to 18 years can have more freedom, but still within an educational and informative framework.
Impacts of screens on family life
Negative effects of excessive digital media exposure on family life
Excessive use of screens risks disturbing family balance and reducing time spent on family interactions.
How to promote healthy family relationships in the face of screens?
Encouraging off-screen family activities and establishing screen-free times can strengthen family bonds and promote healthy communication.
Why favor off-screen family activities?
Off-screen activities offer opportunities for development, creativity, and interaction that are essential to family well-being.
In conclusion,
Positive screen education is a challenge for modern parents, but with the right strategies and a balanced approach, it is possible to take advantage of the benefits of screens while minimizing their risks.
Disclaimer
This article is based on scientific research and current studies, but does not replace professional advice.
References
REF [^1^]. Fitzpatrick, C., Almeida, M. L., Harvey, E., Garon-Carrier, G., Berrigan, F., & Asbridge, M. (2022). An examination of bedtime media and excessive screen time by Canadian preschoolers during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Pediatrics. Link
REF [^2^]. Grané, M., Suárez, R., & Sabando, D. (2023). It depends on you. Family beliefs of digital technologies as a regulator of children’s screen use. Digital Education Review. Link