As technology becomes increasingly intertwined in our society, many parents are left wondering how to integrate it into their children’s lives best. Negative screen time, such as when kids watch too much television or play violent video games, is extremely different from positive screen time. This includes using devices and apps for educational purposes, communicating with friends and family online, and enjoying other nonviolent entertainment. By understanding the benefits of positive screen time and implementing it into your child’s routine in a sensible way, you can help them grow up tech-savvy while still maintaining healthy development habits.
Reducing Screen Time
In recent years, the conversation about screen time and children has primarily been focused on the need to reduce it. While there is no denying that too much screen time can have negative consequences for physical and mental health, there is also an opportunity for parents to change the dialogue surrounding technology and children. Instead of simply reducing screen time, parents should focus on promoting a positive relationship between their children and technology. When used in moderation, technology can be a valuable tool for learning and creativity. By encouraging a healthy balance, parents can help their children reap the benefits of technology while avoiding its risks.
Understanding Screen Time
With technology becoming more ingrained in our everyday lives, parents need to develop their own understanding of what constitutes good vs. bad screen time. This is a difficult assessment to make, but it is a necessary step since technology, and new media are no longer simply entertainment channels but extensions of the learning and living environments.
Children should be taught how to handle these tools and how to grow with them as they continue to change. In order to facilitate positive engagement between their children and the screen, parents must be proactive in setting limits and providing guidance on how to use technology in a healthy way. By doing so, they can ensure that their children are getting the most out of their screen time and are prepared for a future where technology plays an even greater role in their lives.
How To Assess Good vs Bad
So, how do parents begin to understand what content falls under good or bad screen time? Since each child learns in different ways and the context and circumstances are constantly changing, it is vital that parents have an open mind when making decisions that affect the screen time for their child.
A good place to start understanding healthy screen time is brainstorming “good” screen time. Some examples may include:
Minecraft – Minecraft is a popular video game that has been praised for its ability to help players develop important skills. While it’s important to limit screen time, Minecraft can actually help kids develop various important skills, including logic, problem-solving, goal setting, and literacy. In addition, the game has been shown to promote STEM learning, with kids developing an interest in science, technology, engineering, and math. This makes Minecraft a popular choice for parents looking for healthy screen time options for their kids. The game offers an immersive world that encourages creativity and exploration. With so many benefits, it’s no wonder that Minecraft is one of the most popular games around.
Coding – Many people think that coding is too complex and difficult for young children to learn. However, research has shown that kids are fully capable of mastering simple coding concepts at a very early age. Many online platforms offer free coding lessons for students of all ages, including preschool-age children. In addition to exposing children to important skills like logic and problem solving, coding can also be a great way to encourage healthy screen time and boost their creativity.
Whether you’re an adult or a child, learning coding can be an incredibly valuable skill in today’s digital world. From developing websites and apps to solving complex technical problems, programming offers countless opportunities for career growth and development. And with the abundance of resources available online, there’s really no excuse not to start learning now!
Informative Film – The average child spends over seven hours a day looking at screens, whether it’s a TV, computer, tablet, or smartphone. And while this amount of screen time can be concerning, if they are watching informative tv or film, it may be beneficial. Screen time can be a great way for kids to learn new things and explore their interests. There are resources like PBS Kids that offer educational shows and games for younger learners. And for older kids, there are hundreds of documentaries that explore everything from current events to every era of history. So if you’re looking for a healthy way to keep your kids entertained, consider letting them spend some time in front of a screen.
Content – Children’s healthy screen time can be boiled down to the 4 Cs: connection, critical thinking, context, and creativity. Connection refers to how much the content your child is consuming can be related to their everyday lives. The more connections they can make, the more likely they are to retain the information. Critical thinking goes hand-in-hand with connection in that it challenges your child to view things in different ways and see problems from multiple perspectives. Context is important because it puts things into perspective and helps your child understand how technology affects the world around them. Finally, creativity allows your child to explore their imagination and come up with new ideas. All four of these Cs are important when trying to determine healthy screen time for children.
Online Tutoring – When it comes to applying technology in the home, online tutoring is one of the most practical ways to improve a child’s performance in the classroom. Online tutoring sessions can be tailored to each individual student’s needs, providing them with the personalized attention they may not be able to get in a traditional classroom setting. What’s more, online tutoring platforms often support mobile phone and tablet interaction, making it easier for students to access their lessons from anywhere. And because parents can choose from a variety of reputable online tutoring services, they can be sure their child is getting the best possible education. With so many advantages, it’s no wonder online tutoring is one of the most popular ways to learn.
We Offer Healthy Screen Time
Dropkick Math is your best choice for math programs that offer healthy screen time. We are an online academy that provides math programs taught by certified Ontario teachers. By creating a “math playground,” we make learning fun and educational for your child. Our math learning techniques include online group sessions and engaging games that will have your child wanting to learn more.
Start by having your child take our FREE assessment today!
