The child’s brain is constantly building new connections and pruning away less used ones. The digital world plays an active role in this process. When a child is using a screen, it provides poor stimulation to the developing brain compared to reality. Children require diversified experiences – including online and offline.
It’s OK to be Bored!
Did you know it’s good for the developing brain? Children develop their creativity, imagination and problem solving skills when their minds are allowed to wander.
Sleep is Essential.
A good night’s sleep is vital to the development of the brain. Research shows that using blue light emitting screens like smartphones and tablets before bedtime can interfere with sleep patterns by suppressing the hormone melatonin. Additionally, staying up late on a screen can interfere with the sleep cycle that is essential for memory, processing, and storing information from the day.
The Impacts of Screen Time:
The digital world activates the brain’s reward system. It has been compared to pulling a lever on a slot machine! A child’s brain is not yet developed in self control to help themselves stop these
obsessive behaviors. This can translate into difficult transitions to a non preferred activity, boredom of other activities not related to media, and poor emotional regulation and/or coping skills. Interacting with people cannot compare to screens. Obtaining engagement from children who are frequently on screens can be difficult. Increased interactions with peers and family can help in developing social skills. Knowledge is power- we can learn to be flexible to evolve with technology, but knowing how to choose is important.
Digital Tips
● Be aware of digital distractions, which can negatively impact communication with others
● Have regular sit down meals screen free
● Avoid blue light emitting screen use before bedtime
● Use digital time as a way to connect together – Play online games with your children or read a digital book together
●Set timers for screen use and stick with it
●Bring simple activities to use in place of screens, such as when waiting for appointments or traveling. Kid approved: reading, drawing or playing a game together (tic-tac-toe, hangman)
●Set a positive example! Consider your own use of screen time and the choices you model to your child.