Moderated screen time or none at all? Which is better for kids? Find out

Why would one want screen time for kids above two years?

Screen time not only impacts the cognitive development of a child but also interferes with their sleeping patterns. Moreover, children often lose interest in other aspects of their lives such as independent play and allow screen times to be their default nannies. For parents, it becomes very difficult to monitor what content is being consumed by their children, often leading to the children being introduced to inappropriate content. Finally, all of this may amalgamate into overall irritability, tantrums, or behavioural issues in the kids. 

Despite this, Murarkar suggests not cutting kids off their screen time privileges completely. She says that it might not have the desired effect. Moreover, doing that might not even be entirely possible as screens are everywhere. Children will remain curious and through hidden means will ultimately access screen time without your knowledge, approval or monitoring. As such these might lead to greater power struggles in the household– the children feeling cut off from the world at school or elsewhere, and finally the kids rebelling against you under peer pressure.

So, what can you do instead?

Children learn from observation, so be mindful of your own technology use. (Source: Freepik)

Murarkar suggests allowing children to develop a healthy bond with screen time. She says each parent should harness the positive possibilities screen time offers. Using screen time correctly and with a positive attitude can boost your child’s concentration, creativity, imagination and help with learning processes as well. 

Dr Gautami Nagabhirava, Senior Neuropsychiatrist, Kamineni Hospitals, Hyderabad agreed that by
implementing responsible screen time guidelines and being mindful of potential risks, parents can help mitigate long-term negative effects. She said, “Regular communication, adaptability and finding the right balance between screen use and other activities are key to supporting children’s healthy development in the digital age.”

Dr. Nagabhirava suggested that a good way to deal with children’s screen time is to change the restrictions with time. Moreover, she said priotising quality content over quantity is more important for children. “Choose educational and age-appropriate content that stimulates learning, creativity, and social skills. Seek trusted sources like educational websites and interactive apps,” she informed.

In addition to these two, Dr. Nagabhirava advises that you co-view and co-play with your children while they are on the digital device. “Engage in screen time together, actively participating and discussing what they watch or play. This enhances learning and encourages healthy media habits.”

Some other suggestions the doctor has are establishing screen-free zones in the house and emphasising offline activity and be mutually inclusive. She said, “Designate specific areas or periods where screens are not allowed, such as mealtimes, bedrooms, and family gatherings. This promotes social interaction and maintains a balance between screen time and other activities.”

She further said that modelling healthy screen habits to your children so they can learn from you is an active step you yourself can take. “Set a positive example by limiting your own screen time and engaging in non-screen activities. Children learn from observation, so be mindful of your own technology use,” she concluded.

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