I feel very scared about the next generation. I worry that they will not know how to communicate and that they will not be able to focus on one thing at a time. Why do I worry? Well, I see too many children watching tv and flicking through their phone or scrolling through their online accounts on a screen whilst their friend is chatting to them. They look like happy children but it all feels very wrong and something that I am educating children I come into contact about. When I see my children doing either I make them choose – TV screen or phone? When they are chatting to a friend their phone has to go away. These have become part of the household rules. No multi-tasking please. Focus on one thing at a time and give it your attention.
Several summers ago I incorporated a one hour a day screen time where the boys were able to choose what screen they choose to have for that hour. It become harder last summer once my oldest became a secondary school pupil wanting to be more visible with friends and being exposed to you-tubing and vlogs. It has increased but still think I am a mean mummy insisting on screens going away after a short play. There is so much else to learn and do outside of screen time and I want more ‘offline time’ with them. Form a child’s perspective they don’t really get it as they see their phones as the socialising tool and a place where they can learn. They are right but surely everything in moderation.
Why Do We Have Happy Children With Less Phone Use?
I am not the only one who thinks screen time should be limited and top paediatricians have always commented on this. Here is the most recent article I read about how less screen time makes children happier.
Less screen time means better communication, better relationships, more outdoors play, more imaginative play and happy parents. This can be especially true when it comes to children being with other children on playdates and also when having less phone time during the holidays.
If you have a fight on your hands with screen time and other challenges with your child please get in touch and we can talk about how I can help.
