The impact of screen time on children’s health is a topic of growing concern and research. The digital landscape is evolving rapidly, and it is important to understand the potential benefits and risks of screen media on the development, learning, and family life of young children. Research has shown that longer hours of screen time are negatively associated with children’s healthy development, and there are potential physical and mental health drawbacks associated with excessive screen time
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Recommendations for Balancing Digital and Physical Play
Prioritize Interactions and Healthy Routines: It is recommended to prioritize interactions with children through conversation, play, and healthy, active routines. Choosing when to use media together and turning off screens when they are not in use can help promote child health and development in a digital world
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Promote Physical Activity: Encouraging physical activities such as playing sports, walking, biking, running, and jumping can help strengthen children’s muscles and bones. Additionally, children’s screen time does not have to be passive; digital media use can encourage and complement physical activity
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Limit Screen Time and Set Boundaries: It is important to place consistent limits on the time spent using media and the types of media, and to ensure that media does not take the place of adequate sleep, physical activity, and other essential behaviors for health. Designating media-free times and locations at home, as well as limiting one’s own phone use, can also contribute to a balanced approach to screen time
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Educate and Counsel Parents: Physicians and other health care providers should counsel parents and caregivers of young children on the appropriate use of screen time. This involves offering clear and concise advice for parents by educating them about healthy media habits and helping children to recognize and question advertising messages, stereotyping, and other problematic content
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Encourage Meaningful Screen Use: Meaningful screen use, positive modeling, and balanced, informed monitoring of screen time and behaviors are important principles for healthy management of digital media. Additionally, promoting engagement in physical activities and co-viewing with children to encourage them to watch educational content can foster positive media usage
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