Screen time can be fun. Watching your favourite shows, playing video games, and browsing the Internet can be a world of discovery.
However, overconsuming screen time can have detrimental effects on children and adults. Implementing screen time management strategies can enhance family bonding and reduce your electricity bill. Plus, your children can discover more about themselves beyond their favorite shows and virtual games.
Why Too Much Screen Time Is Detrimental for Kids
Too much screen time for children is detrimental because it can influence poor behavior and lack of sleep. They won’t get enough exercise or creative play staying in front of the screen. Tech-free ventures like playing with toys, coloring, and outdoor play ensures children get a variety of interactive activities beyond screen time.
Parents Are the First Examples
Parents should showcase screen time limitations with their kids by reforming their habits, too. It’s comforting to scroll on social media or play casino games to relax. It’s best to designate acceptable screen time limits for everyone in the household.
Give yourself an hour of fun playing on NetBet after the kids get to bed. No matter if it’s playing slots or taking a risk in blackjack, there’s something for every bettor.
Take a quick peek at your social media account as the kids are doing homework. Get off the phone when it’s time to cook and eat dinner. Have meaningful conversations at the dinner table.
The Most Recent Statistics on Screen Time for UK Kids
Analyzing the most recent screen time statistics for local children will reveal the deeper problems as to why management must be enforced. When I saw these statistics, I felt better that I wasn’t the only parent going through screen time management challenges with my children.
A 2021 Ofcom study revealed that 57% of UK children aged 7 and older own a tablet. The age of tech is introducing young children to electronic devices early in life.
Specsavers reports that children ages 5 to 16 may consume at least 6 hours of screen time daily. This includes collective usage between televisions, mobile phones, and tablets, depending on their device access.
According to a Statista study in 2023, the UK’s younger generation spent an average of 127 minutes per day on TikTok. Depending on the child’s age, overconsuming social media is concerning as they can be exposed to mature content they are not ready to see.
The same is true for browsing random videos on YouTube. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to put limitations on my boys’ YouTube usage.
There are times I’ve caught them trying to play on their tablet at the same time as watching television. Some studies have shown that this is common for some UK children. I implemented the rule of choosing one tech activity at a time when it’s their designated screen time.
A 2019 Ofcom study showed that as UK children get older, the higher percentage of them own a mobile device. About 23% of 9-year-olds have a smartphone. That amount went to 50% with children aged 10. About 94% of teenagers aged 15 had a mobile device.
Screen Time Management Tips for UK Kids
Here are some more screen time management tips for children beyond the ones I highlighted in my blog when I considered my boys’ screen time issues in 2018.
- Designate screen-free zones. Have kids give you their tablets and smartphones before bed so they can get a good night’s rest in their bedrooms.
- Set screen time limits on their devices for specific apps they use a lot.
- For every hour of screen time you allow, have your children take a half hour break doing a non-tech activity.
One Response
We need to set up time for children from an early age to create good habits for them.