As technology becomes an increasingly integral part of everyday life, it is important for parents to effectively manage their preschoolers’ screen time. Tablets, smartphones, and televisions are ever-present in our homes and classrooms; understandably, parents feel like they’re navigating a minefield of technology.
We like to keep screen time guidelines simple with 3 keywords: Prioritize, Limit, and Establish.
Prioritize Screen Time
Screen time isn’t all bad. Many educational sites and applications can truly enhance a child’s development. That’s why it is so important to find and prioritize high-quality content that is educational and age-appropriate.
- Look for programs and apps that promote learning and creativity.
- Co-viewing with your child enhances understanding. Co-viewing allows parents to guide and gauge their child’s understanding. Co-viewing allows parents to guide and gauge their child’s understanding.
- Encourage discussions about what they see. Ask questions, and connect what they see on the screen to real life. This kind of shared media use is more beneficial than passive viewing.
The Starfall Curriculum that we use at Owl Hill Learning Academy offers many free on-line activities that are educational: Free Content for Kids and Starfall Activities.
Limit Screen Time
The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry recommends limiting non-educational screen time to about 1 hour per weekday and 3 hours on the weekend for children aged 2 to 5 years.
- Screen time limits help ensure that kids engage in a variety of activities, including physical play, reading, and social interactions, which are crucial for their development.
- Excessive screen time can interfere with language development, sleep, and attention span.
- Use visual schedules or timers to help your child understand how much screen time they’re allowed to have.
Establish Screen-Free Zones and Times
Establish screen-free zones and times, such as during meals and before bedtime.
- Screen-free zones and times encourage healthier habits and foster family bonding, allowing for more meaningful interactions without the distraction of screens.
- Time away from screens provides opportunities to engage in board games, get outdoors for a walk, or have some playtime.
- Worksheets are a great activity to keep kids engaged without the use of a computer, tablet, or phone.
- Don’t forget to establish screen-free times on car rides. While some screen time on long car rides is understandable, travel time can be the perfect opportunity for conversations, singing, and reading to promote language development. Our Starfall Curriculum offers fun and educational downloadable songs. And don’t forget about car games!
Model Healthy Habits
Technology can be a helpful tool when used wisely. Children learn by observing. Be mindful of your screen use and demonstrate a balanced approach to technology.With thoughtful planning and limits, screens can support early learning while keeping your preschooler healthy, happy, and engaged. By prioritizing interactive experiences, setting healthy time limits, and offering alternative activities, parents can guide their preschoolers toward a balanced and developmentally appropriate relationship with technology. Remember–Prioritize, Limit, and Establish.