Families For Life | Make screen time work for you, not against you!

In today’s digital age, is screen time really that bad for children? Like all good things, the key lies in striking the right balance. While screen time may have its own benefits, excessive use can negatively impact a child’s development. A study on Screen Use in Childhood highlights the potential consequences of too much screen time.

So, how can you let your child enjoy their devices without it affecting their growth? Read on for our top tips!

Know when screen time isn’t ideal

Before we delve into it, let’s find out when screen time is advised against. As a general rule, children under 18 months old should avoid screens as these early years require stimulating activities that promote brain development, language skills, and attention span. For instance, when a baby plays peek-a-boo with you or stacks blocks, they're learning about object permanence and spatial awareness. Screen time can take time away from these activities and impede growth and development.

You should also put devices away before bedtime, as studies show that screen use is linked to shorter sleep duration and poorer sleep quality. The blue light from screens can trick your child's brain into thinking it's still daytime, making it harder for them to wind down naturally. Quality sleep is crucial for learning and daily functioning, so keeping screens out of the bedroom can help ensure your child gets enough rest.

Plan ahead

Guide your child in managing screen time by setting clear yet flexible guidelines together. You can discuss when, where, and how long they can use the devices, making it a shared decision that works for everyone.

Consider choosing content that supports their development and learning. A good approach is to balance interactive and educational screen use while encouraging engaging content over passive viewing. This way, screen time remains meaningful and enriching.

Keep them moving

Screen time doesn’t have to mean sitting still! Encourage movement by choosing videos that involve singing and dancing or letting them act out scenes as their favourite characters. Be creative—so long as they stay active!

Encourage social interactions

Face-to-face interactions help young children develop key social and communication skills, like making eye contact and understanding body language. But this doesn’t mean screen time can’t also play a role! For example, watching a show together as a family can create a special bonding moment, especially when you discuss your favourite parts with each other. Playing a video game also encourages collaboration and turn-taking—just be mindful of the types of games they’re playing and how long they play them. These shared activities provide a wonderful opportunity to connect and have fun together while promoting valuable social skills.

Be present

Children shouldn’t be left to their own devices—literally and figuratively. Stay engaged and maintain open conversations with your child about their online activities, offering guidance when needed. Most importantly, be a good role model. If you want your child to develop healthy screen habits, start with yourself! Put your phone away during meal times, keep devices out of bedrooms, and ensure screen time doesn't interrupt valuable family moments.

For more support, check out the Ministry of Health’s Guidance on Screen Use in Children under the Grow Well SG initiative. You’ll be able to find practical strategies to promote healthier screen habits and overall well-being in children and adolescents!