Do you get stressed out without your phone or preferred electronic device? Do you ever wonder why your parents try to encourage time away from the computer, cellphone, television, and/or tablet screen? Too much screen time can have consequences on your body and mind that can be difficult to recover from. Teens who spent more of their free time on their preferred devices were more likely to struggle with weight issues, problems in school, sleeping issues, brain development delays, and depression. Due to Covid-19, our options for activities have been limited and it has been easy for teens and adults to slip into unhealthy screen time habits. This makes it especially important to be mindful of our screen time and find alternative activities to help us stay physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy.
Tips for Limiting Screen Time:
Set limits and follow through with them!
Choose how long you can use your screen
Use a timer
Set specific rooms or areas where technology is/is not allowed (ie. Bedroom, dinner table, living room)
Have electronic free meal time
Reward yourself with 10-15 minutes of screen time after 30 minutes to an hour of productive activities like:
Exercise
Hanging out outside
Reading a book
Studying for a test
Helping clean around the house
Avoid multitasking with screens
Put your phone in another room during class sessions or during homework