Tackling Excessive Screen Time: A Guide for Parents

“In a world where screens dominate, let us remember that true connection and fulfillment come from engaging with the present moment and the people we cherish.”

If you feel that excessive screen time is causing strain in your home, you’re not alone. A study conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) that began in 2018 highlights a troubling link between excessive screen use and issues related to children’s social and emotional development, leaving many parents understandably concerned. The American Psychological Association recommends that children engage in less than two hours of screen time each day; however, many children regularly exceed this guideline.

The Impact of Social Media

Instead of being present in the moment and finding validation from within, many children are seeking self-worth through likes, comments, and online interactions. Social media has conditioned our kids to compare their lives to others rather than fully experience their own. This constant comparison has been linked to heightened feelings of depression and anxiety among children and adolescents, as revealed in a 2017 study.

The Risks of Unrestricted Online Gaming

In addition to excessive social media use, unrestricted online gaming can also negatively impact children’s psychological development. Many games require quick responses, activating the fight, flight, or freeze response consistently. This constant stimulation can train children’s brains to react impulsively rather than thoughtfully. Unfortunately, human brains often struggle to distinguish between the urgency of gaming scenarios and real-world situations. Excessive gaming encourages the use of the lower-level functioning parts of the brain, which are responsible for survival instincts, rather than engaging the higher-level cognitive processes unique to humans. This can lead to impulsive actions and a diminished capacity for thoughtful decision-making in everyday life.

Finding Balance

It’s important to clarify that I’m not suggesting the complete removal of gaming and social media from your children’s lives. Online gaming can be exciting, and social media has the potential to strengthen bonds and relationships. However, it’s essential to encourage your children to disconnect from screens and be present in their lives. Help them appreciate the world they have been gifted and actively participate in it.

Setting Boundaries

Limiting screen time can feel uncomfortable and may be met with considerable resistance from your children. This resistance often reflects the level of dependence they have developed on screens. Fortunately, there are several tools available to assist with the process of limiting screen time. Apps like Moment and AppDetox, along with devices like Circle by Disney, can provide the accountability needed to manage usage effectively.

If excessive screen time is causing strain in your home, it’s time to take action. Setting clear boundaries around screen time can lead to a healthier emotional environment for your children, ultimately helping them feel more emotionally balanced and happier in their daily lives. By encouraging them to engage with the world around them, you can foster a sense of connection and fulfillment that transcends the digital realm.