Screen Time for Children

Screen time is becoming a part of everyday life for children. Even in schools you will find tablets for use in certain classes. Avoiding it all together is unrealistic, but limiting time may be a good option. Here’s what you need to know:

According to a new study published by The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), preschoolers who spend more time in front of a screen have lower structural brain wiring related to imagination, executive function (such as self-regulation), language, and literacy.

• It was found that 16-58% of the brain in those specific areas was affected negatively by increased screen time

• Good brain development occurs from real life experiences such as through imaginative play, reading, socializing, and playing outside.

• Those children who followed the guidelines on screen time from the Amerian Academy of Pediatrics had brains/wiring that was more developed

Some Key Recommendations for Parents Includes:

• Limit screen time use, especially in children under 2 years of age

• Children 2-5 should have no more than 1 hour of screen time a day.

• Engage with children to foster creative learning, interactions, and relationships

• Do not allow screen time to be available during family meal time, in the bedroom, or an hour before bed time.

• Download an app that will monitor screen time for devices and keep older children safe