SCREENTIME HELP!!!

Screentime.  Oh Screentime.  SO many discussions, worries, stressors center around are my kids getting too much screentime? What else should I be doing? Is screentime really that bad?? We have some answers for you all!! It completely depends on HOW screentime is utilized. 

WHAT TO AVOID WITH SCREENTIME

We want to avoid overstimulation

Lots of the shows are designed to hold our child's attention for an unnaturally long period of time

Especially those shows with fast scene changes, bright vivid colours, and flashing lights, lots of noises

HOW TO SEE IF THEY ARE OVERSTIMULATED

If you call their name a few times, try to ask a question, their eyes are fixated on the show, they are overstimulated

SIGNS OF A QUALITY KIDS SHOW

- naturally paced

-only one or 2 sounds at once

-reciprocal conversation

-modelling appropriate social and emotional skills

-solid vocabulary

 HOW TO SET SCREENTIME BOUNDARIES

1. Define Clear and Consistent Rules:

   • Establish clear and age-appropriate guidelines for screen time usage. Discuss these with your child to make sure they understand them.
   • Set specific time limits for screen time & stick to them consistently.
   • Consider creating a visual schedule or timer to help your child understand and even track their own screen time use!

2. Be a Role Model:

   • Children learn by observing their parents' behavior, so it's crucial to model healthy screen time habits.
   • Show your child that you also prioritize and limit your own screen time, especially during designated family time or important activities.
   • Avoid excessive use of screens in front of your child, as it can undermine the boundaries you set for them.

3. Encourage Alternative Activities:

   • Provide a variety of engaging and age-appropriate activities that can replace screen time. This could include outdoor play, reading, arts and crafts, puzzles, board games, or spending quality time together as a family.
   • Help your child explore their interests and find activities they enjoy, which can motivate them to spend less time on screens.

4. Create Tech-Free Zones and Times:

   • Designate certain areas or times in your home as tech-free zones, such as the dining table or bedrooms, to encourage face-to-face interaction and better sleep habits.
   • Establish screen-free times, such as during meals, before bedtime, or during family activities, to promote healthier screen habits and strengthen family connections.

5. Provide Structured Screen Time:

   • Instead of unrestricted screen time, consider providing structured screen time that is educational and age-appropriate.
   • Choose high-quality educational apps, games, or shows that align with your child's interests and offer educational value. We discuss high quality shows in our workshop!
   • Engage with your child during screen time by discussing what they are watching or playing, fostering conversation and learning opportunities.

6. Establish Screen-Free Bedtime Routine:

   • Limit screen time in the hours leading up to bedtime, as screens emit blue light that can interfere with sleep patterns.
   • Encourage calming activities before bed, such as reading a book, practicing mindfulness or meditation, or listening to soothing music.

Join our complete ALL THINGS SCREENTIME WORKSHOP TO GET:

• We will give you the tools and the script to help you prevent those screentime meltdowns!!
•  We are going to dive MORE into what makes a show a high quality show, and then what makes a show a low quality show that you may want to avoid
• Tablet vs TV vs Facetime?? Is there a difference??
•  What are your show recommendations??
• Can it cause a speech delay?? What about background TV??
• We are going to take a hard look at the research and examine it through a critical lens.  Is screentime really that bad?!?!
• I will elaborate more of our Cocomelon detox and why we did it and if we are still watching Cocomelon.   

https://www.mamapsychologists.ca/screentime-course