Excessive screening times can lead to obesity and speech development problems in children. Learn how to reduce screen time and instill healthy habits in your kids!
We live in a digital age where everyone has smartphones! It’s extremely difficult to imagine a day without gadgets. This means excessive exposure to the screen. They have become an integral part of everyone’s life, including children. Although most parents know the risk of too much screen time, studies have found a strong link between the rate of obesity and the increased problems in developing speech abilities when screen exposure is long. As parents, it is important to balance and ensure that your child thrives physically and socially without too much touching the screen. Learn more about these side effects of too much screen time and how it is linked to obesity in children.
Screen Time and Obesity: What is the link?
Excessive screening times have become a serious concern regarding childhood obesity. When children spend a long time in front of screens, they often lead a sedentary lifestyle, making them more prone to being proactive and lazy. This lack of movement contributes to weight gain and unhealthy eating habits, as screen time often promotes snacks on high-calorie foods.
A study published in PLOS One, which analyzed data from 29,480 adolescents (49.4%), found that people who watched TV or played video games for more than an hour were more likely to be overweight or obese than those who reduced their time on screen. Similarly, a Journal Pediatrics study showed that children over two hours of screen time each day were more likely to be overweight.
The link between screen time and obesity is clear. As children engage in more passive activities, they miss out on physical activities, which are essential to maintaining a healthy weight. By reducing screen time and promoting active play, you can fight the rate of childhood obesity rise and promote a healthier lifestyle.
Link screen time and audio issues
Apart from obesity, too much screening time can have a major impact on children’s speech development. A significant concern is that increased screen use may limit face-to-face interactions. This is important for developing communication skills. A study published in the South African Speech and Hearing Association found that children who spend a significant amount of time in front of screens per day are more likely to experience language delays and negative effects on language development. This study highlighted that reduced verbal interactions and reliance on passive content consumption can hinder children’s ability to learn linguistic nuances, leading to difficulties in clarification and vocabulary development.
Additionally, children may have difficulty understanding nonverbal cues and social contexts that are essential for effective communication. Therefore, it is very important to find a balance between screen time and interactive games to promote healthy speech and language development.
How to reduce screen time?
Reducing screen time, especially for children, is essential to promote healthy habits and promote meaningful interactions. Below are seven effective tips to help you manage and reduce screen time.
1. Establish screen time limit
One of the most effective ways to reduce screen time is to set clear limits. Depending on your age, determine the right amount of time to spend on your device every day. For example, you may allow up to two hours of screen time each day. Also make sure you understand the reasons behind them, such as the importance of communicating these restrictions clearly and engaging in other activities.
Read again: Care must be taken when it comes to childhood obesity. Follow these tips to keep your child’s weight down
2. Specify a zone with no devices
Create specific areas in your home where electronic devices are not permitted, such as dining tables, bedrooms, or family gatherings. By establishing zones without these devices, we encourage more face-to-face interactions and help develop deeper family ties. This practice not only promotes healthy communication, but also ensures that food and quality time together will be distracted.
3. Promote healthy diet
Introducing your children to healthy eating habits by presenting nutritious foods in a fun and creative way. For example, you can make zucchini noodles or smoothie bowls to prepare a healthy pizza topped with colorful vegetables. By creating a healthy, visually appealing meal, you can distract yourself from the screen and engage in the cooking process. This not only reduces screen time, but also teaches you the importance of valuable cooking skills and nutrition.
4. Encourage outdoor activities
Aim for at least 1-2 hours each day and encourage your kids to spend more time outdoors. Activities like playing in the park, riding a bike, or taking part in sports can significantly reduce screen time while promoting physical fitness. During the holidays, you can also consider organizing family outings and outdoor games to promote fun. Fresh air and physical activity contribute to their overall well-being.
5. Introducing attractive hobbies
Help your children discover hobbies that will captivate their interests. Whether painting, gardening, building models or playing musical instruments, these activities can offer fun alternatives to screen time. I encourage them to explore different hobbies until they find something that really attracts them. This allows children to become more interested in improving talent than spending time using electronic devices.
6. Set up a good example
As children often mimic adult behavior, it is essential that parents first follow healthy screen habits. Be aware of your screen time and engage in offline activities when possible. Whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk or working on a project, share your interests with your child. By showing a balanced approach to screen use, you encourage them to do the same.
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7. Schedule family time without screens
It is essential that your family meet at least once a day without a screen. This quality time will help strengthen your bond and prevent unhealthy habits. Use this opportunity for activities such as board games, cooking together, or enjoying outdoor adventures.
Using these tips may help your kids follow a healthy lifestyle and reduce screen time each day! Also, talk to your healthcare provider or advisor to know what you can do to keep your child safe and healthy.
