We can often miss out on the fun and beauty that’s happening around us because of our screens.

Some of us may be looking at screens all day at work, then staring at our devices on break.

Then we come home to watch several hours of TV on our large screens, while we scroll messages on our tablet. It’s a little bit weird if you think about it.

Let’s talk about how to reduce our screen time.

Should I Limit My Screen Time?

What Is Screen Time?

Screen time is a term used for an activity done in front of a screen, such as working on a computer, watching TV, or playing video games.

Screen time is a sedentary activity, meaning you are being physically inactive while sitting down.

What’s A Healthy Amount Of Screen Time For Adults?

Experts say adults should limit their screen time outside of work to less than two hours per day.

Any time beyond that which you would typically spend on screens could instead be spent participating in physical activity. (Source: www.reidhealth.org)

How Can I Reduce Screen Time In My Household?

Reading, solving puzzles, playing board games, playing outside, and spending time with friends or family are a few of the healthy activities your family can do instead of being on a device.

Encourage other activities. You might say to your kid “Tablet time is over now, but I’m so excited to play a card game with you or go for a bike ride!”

How Do I Reduce My Screen Time At Home?

Some Tips to Help Reduce Screen Time:

• Track the non-essential time you spend on screens.
• Turn off notifications for your non-essential apps.
• Establish some specific no screen times.
• Stop device multi-tasking.
• Lead by example.
• Pick up the phone and call sometime.

What Activities Replace Screen Time?

Brain-Stimulating Activities to Replace Screen Time:

• Board games such as Monopoly or Checkers.
• Arts and crafts like making jewelry, painting, or small science projects.
• Having story time, or reading a new book.
• Making healthy snacks or treats.
• Drawing and painting.
• Playing a musical instrument.

How Do You Stop Screen Addiction?

Some people find keeping their phones in another room while they sleep helps them to avoid morning and nighttime scrolling. Try no screen time before 8 a.m. or after 8 p.m.

How Can I Make My Screen Time Healthier For My Child?

Tips that can help your child use screens in a balanced and healthy way:

• Have rules about screen time and digital technology use.
• Try for short screen time sessions.
• Make sure physical activity is part of your kid’s day.
• Check into extracurricular activities.
• Encourage socializing and friendship.

How Do I Reduce Screen Time On My Family?

These tips can help you trim your children’s screen time when not in school:

• Show a good example.
• Be realistic.
• Be engaged with each other.
• Put hand-held devices away at the dinner table.
• Create phone-free zones in the home.
• Get outside.

What Is The Recommended Screen Time By Age?

Pediatricians generally recommend the following guidelines: 

Under 2 years old: Zero screen time, except for some video chatting with family or friends.

2-5 years old: Not more than one hour per day, co-viewing with a parent or sibling recommended.

5-17 years old: Generally not more than two hours per day, except for homework. (Source: www.www.osfhealthcare.org)

Final Thoughts

My recent post about improving our vision discusses the risks of blue light from our devices.

Reducing screen time frees up more time to connect with our friends and family. Connections with others can ward off symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety.

Set expectations with your kids, and set your goals to be intentional about reducing screen time.

Please comment or follow the links, thanks for reading.

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