5 Tips for Limiting Your Child’s Screen Time
Raising a child is becoming even more difficult in today’s world. Technology is a gift in many ways, but it can also be a negative force in your child’s life. Excess screen time means your child is being less active, and it can also lead to irregular sleep and behavioral problems. Some screen time is OK, and thankfully, there are ways to limit your child’s screen time that bring it to a manageable, safe, and healthy level.
Designate Times
You must create designated times when your child can and can’t be on their devices to limit their screen time. They will likely be resistant initially, but it’s an effective way to create a healthy relationship with these devices. For example, when coming home from school, they can get on their devices for an hour before jumping into homework or other activities, like reading or playing outside.
Healthy Modeling
One way to limit your child’s screen time is by modeling healthy behaviors. Your children are malleable, constantly adapting and changing what they do and feel. When you model healthy behaviors, they tend to follow that model. Instead of telling your children to get away from their screens while you watch TV all day, you can also step away from the screen and turn to healthier activities.
Parental Controls
Depending on your child’s device, you can also put in different parental controls, like designating times for use. This way, you can create limits. For example, when turning on the TV, you can set a timer that will turn the TV off after a certain amount of time. Yes, they can turn the device back on, but it’s a signal that their time has ended, and they should move on to something without a screen.
Introduce Healthier Alternatives
To make screen time less attractive for your children, you can also introduce some healthier alternatives that are still fun and enriching. Some great alternatives are:
- Reading
- Creative writing
- Art
- Sports
- Cooking
Get Them Safer Technology
In the tech world, many businesses have seen how dangerous traditional technology can be and made safer alternatives. For example, you can get your child an age-appropriate device instead of a traditional smartphone or smartwatch. Many of these devices don’t have distracting internet, games, or social media, ensuring they get away from the screen instead of staring at it for hours.
These are some of the best ways to limit your child’s screen time, but implementing these tips can be somewhat difficult. At TickTalk Tech, we understand that and want to make it easy for you to help your child. Our kids’ smartwatch is safe and will dramatically lower their overall screen time. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to find a perfect smartwatch for your child!
