Screen Time Rules You Must Have

I was at a coffee shop not long ago and saw two mothers with two elementary-aged children. The boys were adorable until they started nagging for their iPad, or "puter" (computer, pronounced "pooter"). "I demand my computer!" they yelled out. When the iPad was stolen, they would shout, "He has my 'puter!" . "I knew I shouldn't have brought his iPad," one mother moaned before giving in to her child's groans. Give them the 'puter and they'll be silent and quit begging in no time at all; trust me, I know. After my then-11-year-old son has negotiated, badgered, and bargained with me for "just five more minutes" of screen time, I have often given in to his demands.

However, research shows that children who spend more than two hours a day in front of screens have trouble focusing, a talent that is essential for success in school and the workplace. Their social and emotional abilities deteriorate. Problems like gambling and pornography can easily take hold of their lives when they're online. Now is the moment to establish some ground rules. The following are five suggestions for limits on screen usage that both parents and children should adhere to.

1. Screen time is a privilege.

It is possible to confiscate computers. It is possible to power down televisions.  Confiscation of cell phones is possible. The amount of time a youngster spends in front of a screen is a personal choice that parents make for their children. Therefore, take a stand against excessive screen time, particularly for youngsters under the age of two.

2. Screen time is a choice.

If your children are uninterested, overly chatty, or otherwise a nuisance, you shouldn't give in to their demands for screen time. Set a daily limit for your child's screen usage and don't budge.

3. Screen time doesn’t mix with company.

The screens are switched off whenever your guests arrive. No one uses a screen while dining out with relatives.

4. Screen time is not private.

Because it protects your children from potential internet predators, this screen time suggestion ranks high among the most important. Every single thing that happens on the television is visible to Mom and Dad. That means parents can read texts, keep tabs on what their children are doing online, approve of what they watch on TV, and prohibit screens in the restroom.

5. Screen time has no place at the table.

A meal is a great opportunity to catch up with loved ones, tell tales about your day, and model appropriate social behavior. The use of screens prevents all of that from happening. Here are eight ideas to help you and your children enjoy mealtimes more.