By Kayla DeKraker
Parents are quick to raise concern and place boundaries on their children’s screen time — which is good — but how often do we as adults put limits on our own screen use?
Because children often imitate what they see, the technology restrictions we give our kids will be much more effective when we set an example.
“Kids have an amazing ability to call us out when we are not engaged and in the moment,” said Matthew Solit, MSA, LMS and executive clinical director at Lifestance Health. “They are also quick to point out the hypocrisy of us telling them to put their devices down and proceeding to pick our own.”
Not only is limiting our own screen time a good example for our children, but it also benefits our health. Too much screen time, also known as “digital overload,” can “lead to restlessness, mental fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, even during moments that require your undivided attention.”
Speaking of moments that require our attention, limiting screen time can also increase quality time with our children and those around us. Solit said, “It’s also better for our own wellness.”
When we are fully present and engaged, moments become more meaningful and valuable.
Excessive screen time doesn’t just affect our day-to-day relationships, but it can also take a toll on our physical health.
Related: 5 Tips to Help Your Child Manage Their Screen Time
“We know that too much of anything that puts a strain on your eyes is not good for your health,” explained Dr. Vivian Tran of Scripps Clinic Mission Valley. “Excessive screen time can also result in headaches, neck, shoulder and back pain and make it hard to fall asleep.”
Some negative psychological affects caused by screen time include “stress and anxiety,” an article by Michigan State University notes.
It continues, “Social media may increase negative emotions because of pressures to maintain a carefully chosen online image or being overwhelmed from continual notifications. A constant stream of information, like what is on social media feeds, can lead to decision fatigue and reduced attention span.”
Solit shared some advice to change your and your kids’ bad screen-time habits. “It helps to find things that are interesting to both you and your kids, otherwise the temptation to pick up that phone becomes greater,” he said.
“Set limits slowly but consistently so kids can respond to the change rather than reacting to it. It’s like getting into running, you don’t want to start with a marathon, just a light jog and build your way up,” he added.
Although screen time is hard to avoid completely in today’s society, we can all make little changes to create a healthier future for ourselves and our children.
Read Next: Did You Know This About Americans’ Screen Time Habits?
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