Screen or No Screen?

Screens are not the enemy.  I will admit, like most people, to having a love/hate relationship with screens.  When it comes down to it, they are a technology like any other (books, puzzles, games) which provide opportunities for fun and learning.

So how do you handle screen time in your home? Almost every parent I know has reached that point of exasperation where they hand over the phone (or iPad) as a pacifier to buy a moment’s peace.  There is not point beating yourself up about this.

The better approach is to face the beast head on and formulate a family plan on how to manage screen time.  Screens are here to stay, and parenting experts recommend the following guidelines for pre-schoolers:  https://raisingchildren.net.au/toddlers/play-learning/screen-time-media/screen-time

Here are some of the highlights for your consideration:

1.    Make sure your child is getting enough physical activity.  Believe it or not, screens can help with this.

2.    When children do use screens, make sure they are using or watching quality content.  Screens have opened up a world of learning and we have access to some amazing apps these days.

3.    Ensure screen time does not interfere with sleep time.  If you try to avoid phones, tablets, computer screens or TV in the hour before bed, your child is more likely to get to sleep quickly.

At Sentia, we have chosen to minimise screen time as a point of difference. Educators are encouraged to carefully consider educational value add for any screens in the room and to type up learning stories and notes about routines when children are sleeping or during planning time. Our focus is on being present with children, with eye contact and mindful interactions.  We are passionate about supporting children’s socio-emotional and communication development. They will have the rest of their lives to contend with screens.

Screens are here to stay. My advice is not to fight it, but embrace it on your own terms with your child’s well-being at the centre of every decision.