Reducing Screen Time for Children

In today’s digital world, it is almost inevitable that children will be exposed to and will interact with screens. We all know as adults; screens are often a central part of our everyday lives. There is value in children in early childcare learning about how to use forms of technology and the safety standards around this. Once children reach preschool age, screens will likely be incorporated into their learning practices. Screens may also support educational opportunities and entertainment for children. However, balance is important and spending less time in front of a screen has countless benefits for children.

According to the Australian 24 Hour Movement Guidelines, suitable amounts of screen time per day have been determined.

0-2 years: No screen time

2-5 years: Less than 1 hour per day

5-12 years: less than 2 hours per day

Excessive screen time can have negative effects on children’s physical and mental health and wellbeing, as well as their social skills and sleep and rest. Screen time is linked to sedentary behaviour reducing children’s play and interactions with others and physical movements throughout the day.

Here are some fun screen free activities to try at home:

1.      Simple board games

2.      Art and craft activities

3.      Reading storybooks

4.      Visiting a park or going for a walk

5.      Making playdough or slime

6.      Outdoor water play

7.      Setting up an obstacle course

8.      Science experiments

9.      Cooking and baking

10. Playing with musical instruments

11. Playing with a pet

12. Gardening

13. Having a picnic

14. Drawing and colouring

15. Have a dance party

16. Yoga or exercise routines

Reducing screen time for kids is a valuable step in promoting their overall health and wellbeing. Balance is always key and practised in early child care. Teaching children healthy habits at home and in an early learning centre from a young age will help them to make good choices as they get older and they have more exposure to screens.

Children at Sage Early Education Centre learning about technology in the music recording studio.