There is something vying for your child's attention this summer. It doesn't matter if your child is 4 years old or 18 years old. It doesn't matter if your child is male or female. It doesn't matter if you live in Toronto or San Diego. What is targeting all these kids? Screens. Spending time on screens.
Kids love to play video games, watch movies, watch tv series, text their friends, scroll social media, and spend countless hours viewing vines on YouTube. It can be a real battle to limit screen time. The bad news is that screen time seems to be winning.
Insider claims that most children in the United States watch between 4-6 hours of screens a day. With that number itching up to 9 hours for older teens. (Eeeek!)
The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry says that young children should keep screen time at one hour a day, with a small increase during the weekend.
The effects of too much screen time are beginning to pile up as well. Here are the top 7 problems associated with too much screen time:
1. Sleep problems
2. Lower grades in school
3. Mood problems
4. Weight problems
5. Not enough time spent outdoors
6. Mood problems
7. Poor self-image
Parents can combat these issues by setting clear, firm limits on screens and introducing other activities. Try things like:
1. Setting up playdates
2. Going outside to play
3. Reading books and visiting the library
4. Doing arts and crafts
Mathnasium of Cranberry Township offers a great alternative to sitting on a couch in front of mindless video games. We have summer programs designed to challenge your student's mind, not turn it to media mush. All over the world, Mathnasium Centers are gearing up for our awesome summer sessions, where kids can engage in a wide array of games, activities and puzzles- all while earning prizes! It's an excellent idea for busy parents who don't want the pressure of planning and scheduling activities for their children all summer long.
Bring your child to Mathnasium of Cranberry Township this summer and let's get their brain growing!
