Do you pay attention to the amount of screen time your child uses daily?
The average person spends 12 hours a day in front of their screen.
Children under the age of two should not have any screen time or, at the very least, a limited amount of screen time. Studies indicate the more screen time children have, the longer their speech is delayed.
Here are some ways that you can help your children use screen time wisely:
- Take an interest in what your children are interested in and research those topics with your children.
- Schedule family media night.
- Discuss any bad content they may come across.
- Restrict what shows your children have access to (for example, the news).
- Check their phones often to see what apps they are using.
- Explain what the character in the show or movie they are watching is feeling to make sure your child is at ease and understands the true lesson behind the actions (for example, a scene of conflict).
- Ask questions to make sure they don’t misunderstand what is happening in a movie, causing them to have negative feelings.
- Install internet filters or safe search engines for browsing purposes.
- Do not give in to your children when their screen time is up.
It would help if you were the compass for your children. Guide your child in the right direction, helping them to be responsible in this digital-driven world.
Books Referenced:
- Talking with Your Kids about God: 30 Conversations Every Christian Parent Must Have, by Natasha Crain
- The Upside of Digital Devices: How to Make Your Child More Screen Smart, Literate, and Emotionally Intelligent, by Nicole Dreiske
- Perspective on Children’s Spiritual Formation… Four Views, by Michael J. Anthony
- Teachable Moments: Using Everyday Encounters with Media and Culture to Instill Conscience, Character, and Faith, by Marybeth Hicks
Online Articles Referenced:
- “Vision Development: Childhood,” by David Turbert
Website Referenced:
Get a cup of coffee, take about ten minutes to recharge your batteries, and equip your mind so you can raise warriors for Christ that will stand firm in the face of evil! Occasionally, we will be giving away free books – so stay tuned! My team and I are here to serve you all for the glory of our Lord!
