The Growing Impact of Screen Time
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It’s no surprise that screen time can affect children. Research, including findings from the Growing Up in Singapore Towards Healthy Outcomes (Gusto) project, has shown that too much screen exposure can alter brain development and cognitive skills. For instance, pervasive screen use at just 12 months can change brain activity before the child turns two and affect their cognitive abilities by the age of nine. Such compelling evidence highlights the need for comprehensive measures to manage screen time.
What Singapore is Doing About It
Upcoming Initiatives
Health Minister Ong Ye Kung and Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli have both stressed the importance of implementing effective measures to deal with screen time. They are working to finalise guidelines that will help families manage device usage, especially for the young ones. These guidelines will be rolled out in the coming months and will include clear advice to be consistently delivered across healthcare settings, as well as practical recommendations for parents to follow at home.
Addressing the Youngest Users
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The primary focus of these measures will be on the very young, from birth to six years old. Minister Ong pointed out, “The starting point is screen time for the very young, 0 to 6 years old. This shapes their habits in social media usage.” By intervening early, the aim is to prevent the formation of unhealthy screen habits that can carry over into later childhood and adolescence.
Practical Tips for Managing Screen Time at Home
For Babies Under 18 Months
- Avoid Screen Time: It’s best to keep babies away from screens, except for video chats with family. This helps them engage more with their surroundings and develop through real-world interactions.
- Reduce Background Screens: Try to limit exposure to background screens, like TVs, to create a more engaging environment.
For Toddlers and Pre-schoolers (18 Months to 6 Years)
- Limit Passive Use: Keep screen time to under an hour a day. Engage them with interactive and educational content instead of passive watching.
- Co-view Content: Watch shows or educational videos with your child. Discuss what they see to make the experience interactive.
- Select Educational Media: Choose age-appropriate and educational content. This not only entertains but also teaches valuable lessons.
- Steer Clear of Harmful Content: Avoid content with violence or other inappropriate themes. This helps protect their mental well-being.
- Maintain Screen-free Zones: Avoid screens during meals and before bedtime. This can help establish routines and promote better sleep.
For Older Children (7 to 12 Years)
- Create a Screen Plan: Develop a balanced schedule that includes screen time along with homework, physical activity, and family time.
- Engage in Conversations: Talk regularly with your children about what they do online. This helps you understand their interests and guide their behaviour.
- Educate About Risks: Explain the potential dangers of the internet, such as cyberbullying and inappropriate content. Equip them to handle these situations responsibly.
- Use Parental Controls: Implement settings to ensure children access only appropriate content.
- Encourage Offline Activities: Balance screen time with other enriching activities like reading, sports, or family games.
Striking the Right Balance
Balancing technology and well-being is essential in today’s digital age. While screens are an inevitable part of modern life, it’s crucial to integrate them into a healthy lifestyle. As Singapore introduces these new measures to deal with screen time, parents can begin adopting recommended practices. This way, children can enjoy the benefits of technology without compromising their development and mental health.
To wrap up, taking steps now to manage screen time effectively can have a lasting positive impact on your child’s growth and well-being. Stay tuned for Singapore’s detailed guidelines, and in the meantime, start implementing these practical tips at home. Together, we can ensure a balanced and healthy relationship with technology for the next generation.
