Q. I'm a new parent, and I'm not sure how to handle technology in regards to my child. When is it safe to begin screen time, and how do I set limits for my child?
A. Children and adolescents spend a lot of time watching screens, including smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, TVs and computers. On average, children ages 8-12 in the United States spend four to six hours a day watching or using screens, and teens spend up to nine hours. While screens can entertain, teach and keep children occupied, too much use may lead to problems. Parents may not always know what their children are viewing or how much time they are spending with screens.
Children may be exposed to violence and risk-taking behaviors, videos of stunts or challenges that may inspire unsafe behavior, sexual content, negative stereotypes, substance use, cyberbullies and predators, advertising aimed at your child and misleading or inaccurate information.
Too much screen time may lead to sleep problems, lower grades in school, reading fewer books, less time with family and friends, not enough outdoor or physical activity, weight problems, mood problems, poor self-image and body image issues, fear of missing out and less time learning other ways to relax and have fun.
Rules recommended by the Academy of Pediatrics recommend to not have electronics in the bedroom and limit screen time (not related to school work) to two hours a day.
Screens are here to stay and can offer many positives. It's never too early to develop a screen-time plan with your family. Let your children share their ideas and concerns. If you are concerned about your child's screen time, talk to your pediatrician or family physician. If problems persist, ask for a referral to a qualified mental health professional.
Dr. Nita Shumaker is a pediatric specialist at Galen North Pediatrics and a member of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society.