Screen Time for Children

KC Bellin, RN Care Manager • December 21, 2019

What is screen time really doing to a child's brain?

Screen time is becoming a part of everyday life for children. Even in schools you will find tablets for use in certain classes. Avoiding it all together is unrealistic, but limiting time may be a good option. Here’s what you need to know:

According to a new study published by The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), preschoolers who spend more time in front of a screen have lower structural brain wiring related to imagination, executive function (such as self-regulation), language, and literacy.

  • It was found that 16-58% of the brain in those specific areas was affected negatively by increased screen time

  • Good brain development occurs from real life experiences such as through imaginative play, reading, socializing, and playing outside.

  • Those children who followed the guidelines on screen time from the Amerian Academy of Pediatrics had brains/wiring that was more developed

Some Key Recommendations for Parents Includes:

  • Limit screen time use, especially in children under 2 years of age

  • Children 2-5 should have no more than 1 hour of screen time a day.

  • Engage with children to foster creative learning, interactions, and relationships

  • Do not allow screen time to be available during family meal time, in the bedroom, or an hour before bed time.

  • Download an app that will monitor screen time for devices and keep older children safe


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