Limit Screen Time and Get Your Kids (and the Whole Family) Moving

Experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that kids over 2 should get no more than one to two hours of screen time a day except to do homework. But on average, 8- to 12-year-olds spend four to six hours a day using various forms of media. Teenagers often get more than nine hours of media a day, not including time spent using media to do homework.

While you may know that your kids need to watch less TV or put down their devices, you might dread the possible screaming, yelling and crying that could follow. First and foremost, remember you are the parent. It’s your job to set healthy limits. We know it’s not easy, but it’s important for their health and well-being. And each child is different, so what works for one child may not work for another.

Here are some ideas on limiting your family’s sedentary time:

1. Make a plan for everyone in your household. Be prepared to offer age-appropriate alternatives to TV or video games after school. Review your plan often and revise it as your children grow. 
    
2. Identify free times for activity during the week. Make time to get the whole family moving. Make physical activity a regular part of your family’s schedule. Write it on a shared weekly calendar.  
    
3. Be active with your kids. Experts say that what kids want more than anything is time with their parents. To give them that, don’t just send them out to play — go play with them! Develop a set of activities for you and your family that are available regardless of the weather. Try these easy tips to get active!
    
4. Limit TV, computer, smartphone and video game time.
   • Set screen-free zones, such as in your dining room or children’s bedroom.
   • Set screen-free times, such as while they are doing homework (if devices aren’t needed) or before bed. 
   • Position your furniture so the TV is not the focus of the room. 
   • Avoid using TV time as a reward or punishment. 
5. Plan TV watching in advance. Pick the shows you want to watch. Turn the TV on only for those shows and turn it off afterward. Don’t just watch whatever comes on next.
    
6. Practice what you preach. Your kids won’t accept being restricted to two hours of screen time if you can veg out for four hours. The best way to influence your kids’ behavior is by being a good role model. 

These habits take a little thought and a lot of practice. Do what you can as often as you can.

Some alternative activities to screen time include:

• Family game night
• Shoot hoops or kick a soccer ball
• Walk the dog
• Explore a nearby park
• Turn on some music and dance
• Do chores that require some physical activity

You can do it! Be strong, have a plan and don’t back down. Your child’s health is worth fighting for.