Screen time — how much is too much?

Mar 22, 2023 | Cyber Parenting - Screen Time

💻 Earlier in March, social media app TikTok revealed it would by setting up a 60-minute daily screen time limit for users aged under 18. If young people hit the new limit, they will have to enter a passcode to continue to use the service that day.

👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 Parents of children using the Family Pairing option on the app will also be able to set screen time limits, as well as access a dashboard to view a breakdown of app usage.

👀 While there’s no definitive answer on the ‘right’ amount of screen time, or even the impact of screen time on our health, many parents aim to limit the amount of time little ones spend looking at screens.

The internet is a valuable tool for both children’s education and enjoyment. As well as limiting time on apps, how else can parents keep screen time safe?

📺 Follow the 20:20:20 rule — that means looking away from a screen every 20 minutes, at something 20 feet away, for at least 20 seconds.

📺 Schedule outside time — time spent outside will not only give eyes a rest, but will also give the mind a chance to slow down and relax.

📺 Keep hydrated — plenty of water will help to avoid dry eyes.

📺 Book annual eye exams — if you’ve noticed a change in your child’s vision over the past few months, it’s best to arrange an eye test.

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It’s well known that there are lot of games that can be played as a family together on screens, whether that is on an Xbox, PlayStation, tablet or computer. Games can be educational, fun and competitive. Play together. Keep games consoles in communal rooms and play...

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