What is Excessive Screen Use?

It's important to recognise that not all screen use is equal. Educational or interactive use, like learning apps or video calls, differs significantly from passive screen use like scrolling through social media or watching videos. Passive screen use involves viewing and receiving information through screens without the need for interaction and thinking, often without co-viewing with adults. For example:

  • For 7 years old and above: Binge-watching videos or shows on streaming platforms, especially when autoplay is on.

  • For 13 years old and above: Scrolling through social media mindlessly.

Based on the ‘Guidance on Screen Use in Children’[1] by the Ministry of Health (MOH), too much passive screen use can hinder your child’s ability to focus, make decisions, and interact socially. Excessive screen use can affect your child's health and well-being[2]. But fret not, we have compiled some practical tips to help you guide your child in managing screen use.

Four Positive Ways To Broach The Subject Of Screen Use

Kid and parent using a tablet

Every family is unique, and finding the right balance for screen use involves collaboration and understanding. Here’s how you can start:

1. Have an open conversation with your child

Jumping straight into rules and limits is no fun. Rather, begin by showing interest. Ask about their favourite apps, games, or activities online.

Imagine this:

You
:
“Hey, can you share with me what your favourite game or app is?”
Child
:
“Sure! Look at this.”

Versus

You
:
“You only have one hour for your device. No buts.”
Child
:
“Ugh.”

The former approach helps you understand what they enjoy and sets a more positive tone for discussion.

2. Let your child learn about balance

Kid and parent riding a bike

Use this opportunity to talk about balance, not just with screen use, but in life overall. Explain how too much of anything, including screens, can steal time away from other activities like learning, sleeping, exercising and spending time physically with friends and family – which are all important for their mental well-being.

Imagine this:

You
:
“Notice how daddy and mummy put our devices away during certain times? Do you know why?”
Child
:
“Hmm, why?”
You
:
“Let me explain...”

Let their natural curiosity lead them to learn about balance.

3. Collaborate with your child

Kids and parents having fun

When it comes to setting realistic screen use rules, involve your child in the decision-making process. Consider creating a plan together that includes family activities, outdoor play, and limited screen use. Encourage them to reflect on how different activities make them feel, and help them find a balance that they are comfortable with.

Imagine this:

You
:
“I get tired when I spend too much time looking at a screen. What about you?”
Child
:
“Sometimes my eyes will start hurting a little.”
You
:
“Let's spend less time on our digital devices and plan some screen-free activities to do each day, so that we won’t feel this way.”

When it comes to setting rules, involving your child in the process helps them feel more in control of the choices they make.

4. Be your child’s shining example

Your child learns a lot by observing you, so you be a role model for them when it comes to balanced screen use simply by demonstrating it yourself.

Imagine this:

Child
:
“I don’t want to watch videos on the tablet during dinner.”
You
:
“Oh? Why do you say so?”
Child
:
“Because you don’t, so I don’t want to either.”

Show them how you manage your screen use, prioritise face-to-face interactions, and take breaks from digital devices.

Remember, it’s a journey.

Ultimately, the goal here is not to eliminate screen use totally, but to teach your child how to manage it wisely, creating a balanced approach that supports their growth and development. Even if you might not get it right immediately, there is no need to feel pressured. Parenthood is a journey, not a sprint. You will get there by taking it step by step. You’ve got this!

Visit Parent Hub for more useful resources to give your child the best start they deserve.

The information in this article has been adapted from Digital for Life.

References:

1. Ministry of Health. (2023, Mar). Guidance on Screen Use in Children. Retrieved from
https://go.gov.sg/moh-screenadvisory

2. Centre for Holistic Initiatives for Learning and Development (2021). Impact of Screen Viewing during Early Years on Cognitive Development (Evidence Insight). Retrieved from
https://thechild.sg/resources-publications/