Screen Time and Young Minds: Balancing Digital Media and Mental Health

Smartphones, tablets, televisions, and laptops — the digital media world is endless. With countless amounts of opportunities to find connection, we may find ourselves lost to our screens. While technology brings numerous educational and entertainment options, it has also been proven to negatively impact the mental health of children and adolescents. To foster growth and health for young minds, it’s important to find a balance between screen time and other pleasurable activities.

The Pros and Cons of Screens

Media has revolutionized the way children learn and interact with the world. Online resources are linked to improve cognitive development through educational apps and interactive games. Easy access to these tools makes education more fun and engaging for kids. Additionally, social media, texting, and video calling make connecting with friends and family more convenient. The barrier of physical distance goes away with communication being right at their fingertips.

On the contrary, excessive screen time comes with risks. Prolonged screen time can cause eyestrain, poor posture, disrupted sleep patterns, and more concerning, mental health impacts. Studies have shown that too much time spent scrolling on screens can increase anxiety, depression, and attention problems in young ones. The pressure that is associated with maintaining social media appearances can overwhelm adolescents, leading to a decline in self-esteem and overall well-being.

The Importance of Balance

Healthy development is all about balance. Normal amounts of screen time can be beneficial, however it is also important to mix in other activities. But how?

Set Boundaries

As caregivers, you want to explore setting screen time limits. There is no right or wrong way to do this, but it’s important to not allow more than four hours at a time. For example, you may set a rule that kids can use screens for an hour after school. Set a timer so that way no one loses track of time. Once that hour is up, encourage children to do homework, go outside, socialize with family members, or engage with a screen-free hobby.

It may also be beneficial to set “screen free” zones around the house, such as the dinner table, bathroom, or bedtime.

Physical Activity

Physical activity is vital for growth and development. Encourage your children to play outside, join a recreational sports team, go for walks or runs, or do at home stretches and work outs. While exercising lessens screen time, it also promotes better sleep, reduces stress, builds self-confidence, and improves overall moods. Physical activity is also a way for parents to bond with their children. Find an exercise to do together as a family.

Encourage Quality Content

Screens are not necessarily all bad for young minds, it’s all about what they are being used for. Encourage the use of high-quality, educational, and age-appropriate content. Utilize parental controls and modify their media use to ensure safety and exposure of positive and enriching experiences.

Watch or engage in the content with your children. This way, parents can monitor screen time while also being interested in their children’s interests.

Model Healthy Behavior

Children often imitate the behaviors of adults. In order to ensure your children have healthy screen habits, demonstrate to them what these behaviors look like. Limit your own screen time, engage in offline activities, and prioritize face-to-face interactions. Find fun, family activities to do together, such as board games, puzzles, reading, arts and crafts, and going on outdoor adventures.

Education and Support

With technology being so mainstream, internet safety and education seems to not be as relevant. Take time to inform your child about the dangers of the digital world and how they can be safe.

Sometimes, parental guidance is not enough. If you or your child is struggling with screens, it may be helpful to seek assistance from a mental health professional. Child therapists can work with your young one to encourage healthy habits and help parents with open communication and screen balance. Reach out and schedule a session today!