The digital age has transformed the way our children interact with the world. Here are some positive strategies for managing screen use at home that will help parents navigate this important aspect of modern education.
How do you manage children's use of screens?
Parental controls to limit access to screens
According to a study by Fitzpatrick et al (2022) REF [^1^], the use of parental control tools is essential to regulate access to inappropriate content and limit exposure time. This helps to create a safe digital environment for children. Dedicated applications are already available on certain platforms.
Recommendations for limiting screen time
It's best to set clear limits on the amount of time spent in front of digital media. This tactic balances online activities with other important aspects of development, such as physical play, reading and social interaction.
Helping teenagers share their knowledge about screens
Adults should encourage teenagers to talk about what they see and learn on digital media. This is an effective way of understanding and guiding their digital experience.
What are the strategies for taming children's screens?
Creating a link around screens for educational exchanges
Grané et al (2023) REF [^2^] stress the importance of using screens as educational tools to strengthen family ties and promote learning, through activities such as watching educational documentaries or playing stimulating games.
Protecting our children from inappropriate screen content
Monitoring and discussing the content viewed by children is mandatory to protect them from the harmful effects of certain digital media.
Parents overwhelmed by screen management
Resources and support should be provided to parents to help them manage the use of these media in their family. This can include workshops, online guides and expert advice.
What techniques can be used to get people to accept the rules on limiting exposure times?
The best way to get people to accept the rules on limiting exposure time is :
- Establish clear, consistent rules.
- Involve children in creating these rules.
- Use screen time tracking tools.
These strategies, backed up by research, help to reinforce children's understanding and acceptance of exposure limits.
Why not demonize screens?
While these devices can present risks, they also offer opportunities for learning and development. Nevertheless, it is also important to understand their impact on behavior, mental health and cognitive development.
What are the effects of screens on children and teenagers?
The influence of screens on adolescent behavior
Teenagers are particularly sensitive to the influences of digital media. Understanding this influence can help parents guide them towards responsible use of these tools.
How children spend their time on screens
Examining how and why children use these media can help direct their use towards more positive and enriching activities.
Risks and recommendations linked to screen addiction
To manage the risks associated with this addiction in children, it is important to, among other things:
- Recognize the signs of overuse.
- Balance screen time with other activities.
- Consult healthcare professionals if necessary.
These measures help prevent this disorder and encourage healthy, balanced use of technology.
The effects of overuse of screens on children's physical and mental health
Excessive use of these devices can have a negative impact on physical and mental health. These include sleep, attention and anxiety.
The use of screens in education
The negative effects of overexposure to screens on school performance
This overexposure of children can lead to a drop in concentration in class, a delay in the development of cognitive skills, sleep disturbances, less time devoted to homework and a negative influence on classroom behavior.
Proper use of screens in the classroom
The uses of digital media in schools are manifold. Indeed, they can be effective teaching tools when used in an appropriate and balanced way.
The role of educators in the proper use of digital media
Educators play an essential role. They can help young people develop critical media skills, understand the challenges of overuse and encourage responsible digital practices.
Recommendations on exposure to screens in early childhood
For older children, recommendations vary according to their age group. Between the ages of 3 and 6, it's acceptable for children to have a few minutes' exposure to screens a day, although zero screens remains the main recommendation. From ages 6 to 9, exposure should be limited to one hour a day, for educational purposes, with parental supervision and human interaction.
From ages 9 to 12, educational screens without Internet access are appropriate under supervision. For teenagers aged 12 to 16, limited Internet access is possible under adult supervision, while young people aged 16 to 18 can have more freedom, but always within an educational and informative framework.
The impact of screens on family life
The negative effects of overexposure to digital media on family life
Excessive screen use can upset the family balance and reduce the time devoted to family interaction.
How can we promote healthy family relationships in the face of screens?
Encouraging off-screen family activities and establishing screen-free times can strengthen family bonds and foster healthy communication.
Why opt for family activities away from the screen?
Off-screen activities offer opportunities for development, creativity and interaction that are essential to family well-being.
In conclusion,
Positive screen education is a challenge for modern parents, but with the right strategies and a balanced approach, it's possible to reap the benefits of screens while minimizing their risks.
Disclaimer
This article is based on scientific research and current studies, but does not replace professional advice.
References
REF [^1^]. Fitzpatrick, C., Almeida, M. L., Harvey, E., Garon-Carrier, G., Berrigan, F., & Asbridge, M. (2022). An examination of bedtime media and excessive screen time by Canadian preschoolers during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Pediatrics. Link
REF [^2^]. Grané, M., Suárez, R., & Sabando, D. (2023). It depends on you. Family beliefs of digital technologies as a regulator of children's screen use. Digital Education Review. Link
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