Managing Screen Time

Screen time refers to the time that is spent using gadgets like mobiles, laptops, video consoles, television, etc. The time your child spends using these gadgets can have both benefits and risks. It has been advised that children should not spend more than an hour watching television or videos on mobile phones. Despite this, parents, in order to complete their daily chores and avoid their children from fussing let them indulge in such activities, which in turn has a bad effect on their health and behavior as well. When you limit screen time, your child has more time to read, play outdoors or socialize with other kids.

As one of the best ICSE preparatory schools in Patiala, we at Kaintal Preparatory School, make sure you manage your child’s screen time through the following tips:

Set Guidelines:

You can either control the time period of them glaring at these screens, or limiting it to a few days in a week. This will give them a chance to get familiar with outdoor games and help them enhance their need to get social.

Avoid Using these Gadgets while You are with Them:

A child grasps whatever is shown to him in a nick of time. If you are on your phone in front of your child, it's likely to build curiosity in him as to what is keeping you so interested. Instead, read a book in front of them, that will encourage them to read. Comics should be the easy replacement for phones or tablets.

Digital Detox:

While eating or discussing things with your family, make sure everybody avoids using phones. This will instill a sense of togetherness. Also, while on vacations this detox should be considered for a longer period of time.

Parental Control:

What a child sees can affect his behavior. Communicate the adverse effects of violent games or series that he is indulging in.

No to Social Media: 

In the developing stage of a child, he is unaware of what all is going on around him. It is difficult for him to differentiate between who to avoid and who to talk to behind the screen. He might share his personal details with unknown people. Therefore, when you think your child is ready to take responsibility for his actions, only then introduce him to Social Media.

Awareness:

Make your child aware of all the risks that come with inappropriate screen time. Children often are unaware of what is real and what is not, luring them towards hoaxes and scams. 

As one of the well known preparatory schools in Patiala, we believe the mind of children at their young stage can be molded the way you want to. Therefore start these practices as early as possible.