Screen Time and Children
We live in a society where technology is part of everyday life and it is understandable parents think their children should be exposed to devices early in their life so as not to be left behind. However, Harvard Medical School have stated there is no data to substantiate this concern. I am sure we have all seen an infant very comfortably navigate a never before seen device with innate dexterity and confidence.
Australia’s Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines (2017) were updated to respond to this research from Harvard and now recommends no exposure to electronic media for babies and a maximum of one hour daily for toddlers and preschoolers. There is little evidence to support the idea that use of any form of electronic media benefits the development of infants and toddlers. However physical activity and face to face contact is proven to be critical to child’s development. The types of sedentary activities recommended include singing, reading, puzzles and storytelling.
In 2017, the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) National Child Health Poll cited 36% of preschoolers had their own mobile device and half of these preschoolers used their screens without adult supervision. On average, the poll found that infants and toddlers averaged 14 hours per week and 2-5 year olds spent 26 hours per week viewing and interacting with electronic devices, including TV, DVD, computer, laptop, iPhone, smartphone, iPad, other tablets and gaming consoles. This poll found that the majority of Australian children, across all age groups, are exceeding the national recommended guidelines for screen time. Parents averaged almost 40 hours per week and the poll stated “A strong relationship was seen between parents’ screen use and that of children. Basically, a parent who has high levels of screen use is more likely to have a child with high levels of use”.
The poll found “many families are experiencing conflict over screen use and that a lack of physical activity and excessive use are big concerns to parents”. It is challenging but we need to ensure our lifestyle is balanced with physical and sedentary activities for ourselves and our children. It will require some rethinking and planning but it can be done.
“There is no wifi in the forest but I promise you will find a better connection.”