Technology vs health: how to effectively control the use of electronic devices by children

Electronic devices such as televisions, smartphones, and computers can be harmful to children if they are used too often. Studies have found that there is a link between too much time spent in front of the screen and childhood obesity, as well as developmental delays.

Фото: Depositphotos

How much is too much screen time?

It depends on the age of the child. And parents should keep track of how much time the child spends playing with a particular device. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends these guidelines:

• If the baby is from 0 to 18 months: Only short video chat sessions are allowed.
• From 18 to 24 months: Start introducing your child to high-quality age-appropriate programs, watch them together to help your child understand what is happening on the screen.
• 2 to 5 years old: Limit the time you watch high-quality programs on the screen to 1 hours a day and watch them together to help the child in understanding what he saw.
• From 6 years It is necessary to establish permanent restrictions that will ensure that the time spent on gadgets does not adversely affect sleep, physical activity or the health of the child.

Tips for parents

Here are some tips parents can use to control their child’s time with gadgets.

Extend the duration of a variety of activities that are not related to electronic devices

The more children play on the street or study, the less time they spend on phones, computers, and more. Parents can play active or educational games with their children, as well as encourage them to play outdoors, meet friends and read books.

Set zones without electronic devices

An electronic device-free zone is an area in the home where electronic devices are prohibited. Parents can choose the bedroom or the dining table as such a place. The idea of ​​these zones works best when the whole family follows the rules.

Set a good example

Children often try to copy everything that their parents do. Therefore, if parents give preference to active activities that are not related to electronic devices, children will want to follow their example.

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Watch the video and play together

Any time a child gadgets should be time spent with dad or mom. Parents can turn electronic time into a family activity, like reading a book or a board game. Children often do not understand what is happening on the screen, so adults should watch what is happening with them and explain.

Do not use gadgets to reassure a child

It's very tempting to just give your child a phone or tablet when they're being naughty. But this will encourage him to act up every time he wants to play with an electronic device. And if once again, due to his capricious behavior, he is not given a gadget, he may throw a real tantrum. This can eventually develop into a pattern of bad behavior and excessive screen time.

Фото: Depositphotos

Controlling the time spent on gadgets will ensure that children develop healthy and strong. But the main focus of parents should not be on reducing the time children spend in front of the monitor. The key is for parents to teach by example, encourage activities that don't involve technology, and set clear limits and rules.

The pediatrician can answer any questions regarding the optimal time for children to use electronic devices, depending on their age and other indicators. If you need to find a pediatrician near you, use the special search engine for medical specialists: fideliscare.org/findadoctor from Fidelis Care Insurance Company. For more information about child health insurance, visit Fidelis care.

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