Parents’ Guide to Limiting Kids’ Screen Time
It may seem like screens are the main way to play these days, but there are so many benefits to activities that don’t require screens! When you child takes part in screen-free activities, they can help to develop their sensory, play, communication, social-emotional, and motor skills.
Looking for some screen-free activity inspiration? Check out some of these articles for lots of ideas!
Read along with the video below!
Why is it beneficial to limit screen time? It’s important children learn about human interactions without the use of screens! Screen-free interactions give kids more opportunities to:
Maintain eye contact
Learn how to respond to others
Have back-and-forth exchanges
Human interactions matters, but it’s equally important for kids to play independently without screens. Screen-free time gives kids more opportunities to:
Foster creativity
Learn to use their minds and bodies in new ways
Develop sensory skills by exploring their environment
Develop motor skills from moving around their environment
You don’t need to completely give up screens though. It’s ok for children to relax in front of a show, just like you. Just be sure to set time limits! The AAP recommends for the first 18 months, children have no screen time. For toddlers, the AAP says to limit screen time to 1 hour a day.
