Managing your child's screen time

There are no set rules for the amount of screen time your child should be allowed. However, what is recognised is that younger children should spend less time using their tablet or computer than older or secondary school children. The NHS recommends 1 hour of physical activity per day for children, so if they are glued to a screen all the time, it's helpful to put boundaries in place and encourage them to entertain themselves in a variety of ways.

How long?

It can be difficult to gauge how much viewing is schoolwork or play. It’s best to discuss this with your child and agree how much time (maximum) they should be using a screen. This will of course be variable depending on their age and the circumstances such as homework, or family viewing time. Be open to discuss this rather than be rigid in controlling them, it’s better to be flexible rather than have an argument every day.

Breaks

It’s a good idea for everyone to take regular breaks from looking at screens, and for young children this could be as often as every half hour. Whatever you agree make sure (when they are at home) that you keep a check on this. You should also be aware that overuse of a screen can cause health issues in some children (and adults) so headaches and tired eyes could be a sign that devices are being overused.

Set a good example

If you agree that two hours a day is the maximum time allowed, but you walk to school every morning fixed on your phone, then you know what your child is going to say! Show that you are being responsible and your child will be more agreeable to the controls you put in place. This can be hard as checking our phones constantly can become a habit, so having family limits in place benefit everyone, including you.

Rules

When using their screens at home you have lots of control, but agree the rules between you rather than just demand how your child uses their screen time. Having ‘screen free zones’ in your home is also a good way of maintaining a level of support if this is possible. Perhaps no screens in the bedroom, or at meal times. Some families only allow screen time for young children in the living room, this can be beneficial as it also allows you to monitor what they are viewing. Whatever you agree you should make it clear that you will keep a check on this and always be open to discussion.

What about bedtime?

It's well known that watching a screen 30-40minutes before going to bed can make it harder to fall asleep. It's beneficial to have a no screens at bedtime rule in place. Removing screens before bedtime helps children to relax and fall asleep.

Controls

Wherever possible ensure that any online content is appropriate for your child and their own sensitivities. There are lots of parental controls you can put on electronic devices, and a number of Apps that can give you piece of mind. Make sure that you use these controls, and that you make regular checks they are still in place and giving you the cover required. If you have difficulties setting these up, then reputable retailers will be happy to help you e.g. Apple Store, Currys PC World, mobile phone outlets etc.

Risks

Like all activities there are risks to screen time, this may be from a physical health point of view as stated above, but may also come from content, such as news or inappropriate images which even with safety Apps installed, may still viewed by accident. It's also not possible to guarantee what your child views on another child’s tablet or phone. Children can inadvertently see things that worry or scare them online and this often plays out in their mood. Be aware of your child’s moods and be prepared to question if they appear upset so you can give them the support they need.

Screen time is here to stay, and the younger generation accepts this as part of everyday life, but that doesn’t mean that you don’t have some control about what your child views and how long they spend online.

If you want further advice the Safer Internet Centre is a helpful source of information https://saferinternet.org.uk/guide-and-resource/parents-and-carers