Screen time

Under 24 months no screen time.
2-5 years up to only 1 hour.
Older kids -such that adequate sleep, physical activity and heathy media use age.
Now with even learning happening online, we all are expected to make relaxations.
It would be ideal to co parent /view their contents, make it interactive (ask questions, talk ), use contents which are safe and violence free.

In these difficult times helps to socially connect (face time, video calls).
Made distant learning possible be it school or hobbies like music, sports, chess etc.

Excessive viewing especially around bed time can affect sleep.
Reduced physical activity leads to obesity.
Poor socio emotional development due to reduced real life interaction.
Behaviour problems due to viewing non age appropriate content that maybe violent or sexual.
Studies suggest that when individuals are engrossed in internet games, it responses in brain that influences feelings of pleasure and reward resulting in addictive behaviour.

Proper seating, back and feet supported, screen away from window to avoid glare .
20-20-20 every 20 minutes look 20 feet away for 20 seconds, ensure they take a break to avoid overload.
Don’t share passwords, numbers, address, pictures with people online.
Be friendly, open minded and non judgemental as it will allow the child to be honest about their activity.
Train child report suspicious activity to parents (you).
If any content affecting them (friends bullying, inappropriate messages and pictures) to report to you.
Be aware of media history, pornography and violent video games/ content.

Model correct behaviour -show them the right media behaviour
Keep screen time away during food time and at bedroom.
When providing screen time, ensure the content is safe ,educational and avoid violent/ sexual content.
Don’t use screen as reward.
Encourage offline activities like sport, dance, music, board games etc.