Screens Over the Summer
In this digital age wise use of technology for learning, self-expression and entertainment is an important consideration for parents, caregivers and teachers. Over the summer you may wish to consider how to use, enjoy and limit the use of screen time and technology.
A good resource is Common Sense Media. Using this site you can check out if a movie, game or application is appropriate for your child(ren). There are also resources on how to set limits and balance screen time with other enjoyable and healthy leisure activities.
See the chart below for the recommended screen time and tech use from the Canadian and American Pediatric Associations.
Signs to watch for that indicate unhealthy technology use:
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need to spend increasing amounts of time
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often restless or irritable without it
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repeated, unsuccessful attempts to quit or reduce use
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preoccupied thoughts about it
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often uses tech when stressed in an effort to feel better
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often lies to conceal the extent of involvement
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has significantly damaged relationships with family, school. Work etc.
Resource: Dr. Richard Freed
Books for parents on this topic include:
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Reset Your Child’s Brain by Victoria Dunckley
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Screens and Teens by Kathy Koch
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Getting to Calm by Laura S. Kastner and Jennifer Wyatt
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Disconnected by Thomas Kersting
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Screen-Smart Parenting by Jodi Gold
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Wired Child: Reclaiming Childhood in a Digital Age
Canadian Pediatric Society and American Academy of Pediatric Guidelines for Technology Use |
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Developmental Age |
How Much? |
Non-violent, pro-social TV |
Non-violent, pro-social video games |
Violent video |
Hand-held devices |
Online violent video games and/or pornography |
0-2 years |
none |
Never |
Never |
Never |
Never |
never |
3-5 years |
1 hour/ day total tech |
Okay |
Never |
Never |
Never |
never |
6-12 years |
2 hours/ day total tech |
Okay |
Never |
Never |
Never |
Never |
13-18 years |
2 hours/ day total tech |
Okay |
Limit to 30 min/day |
Limit to 30 min/day |
Okay |
Never |