How to keep your kids’ screen time healthy and balanced

 If you’ve ever worried about how much time your child spends scrolling or gaming, you’re definitely not alone. With small, manageable changes you can make all the difference. By setting healthy boundaries and encouraging other fun activities, you’ll help your kids thrive.

What is sedentary behaviour?

Sedentary activities are those that involve sitting or lying down with little movement, like reading, drawing or playing with puzzles. These activities can help with creativity and learning. However, sedentary activities involving screen time, such as watching TV, playing online games or scrolling on social media, should be limited. 

Why does too much screen time matter?

Extended periods in front of a screen can affect your child's physical health, social skills, mental wellbeing and cognitive development. Here’s how:

• Physical Health: Less movement, poor sleep, bad posture and unhealthy eating habits.

• Social Skills: Challenges with forming friendships and interacting with others.

• Mental Health: Reduced motivation, low self-esteem and a greater risk of depression.

• Cognitive Development: Difficulty with attention span, delayed language development and fewer problem-solving opportunities.

How much screen time is too much?

The physical activity and exercise guidelines for all Australians recommend screen time limits for children and young people to promote optimal health.

Here are some guidelines to help manage screen time for kids:

• 0-2 years old: Avoid screen time entirely. Research shows that early screen exposure can slow language development.

• 2-5 years old: Limit screen time to no more than 1 hour a day.

• 5-17 years old: Limit recreational screen time to a maximum of 2 hours daily. The less time they spend sitting still, the better.

How to encourage healthy habits

Here are a few easy ways to help your kids cut down screen time:

• Set clear limits: Establish clear rules about screen time limits and stick to them.

• Create device-free zones: Designate areas, like the dining room or bedrooms, where screens are not allowed.

• Offer fun alternatives: Encourage outdoor play, crafting, or reading to keep kids engaged without screens.

• Be a role model: Show your children how to balance screen time by reducing your own device usage.

The key is balance. Screens aren’t bad, but it’s important to mix them with physical activity, play and face-to-face conversations. Small changes can lead to good habits, so take it one step at a time. A healthier and happier routine is possible!