Screen time and children, and you

Navigating screen time with your kids

[Upbeat Music Playing]

Host: Welcome, dear listeners, to another thought-provoking episode of the "Dad Shoes Podcast" – the show that helps you step into the challenges of modern fatherhood with confidence and purpose. I'm your host, [Your Name], 

and I am your other host [your name]  and today, we're going to tackle a topic that's been on every dad's mind: navigating screen time.

[Sound of Kids Playing]

Host: Picture this: It's the 21st century, and screens are an inseparable part of our lives. Smartphones, tablets, computers, and televisions have become constant companions, especially for our children. But as dads, we're left grappling with a complex question - how do we help our kids navigate the digital landscape while fostering a healthy balance?

[Thoughtful Pause]

Host: In this episode, we're diving headfirst into the world of screen time: the good, the bad, and the strategies that'll help us find our footing. We'll explore how to make informed choices, set boundaries, and ensure that screen time serves as a tool for learning and connection rather than a digital babysitter.

[Sound of Knowing Nods]

Host: Whether you're a tech-savvy dad or still adjusting to the digital age, we've got insights and ideas that will resonate with you. We'll bring together personal stories, expert advice, and relatable experiences, all designed to help you tackle this vital aspect of parenting.

[Laughter and Connection]

Host: So, slip into your comfy dad shoes, find a cozy spot, and let's embark on this journey of exploring the digital world with our kids.

[Music Swells]

Host: We'll delve into questions like, "What's the impact of screen time on children's development?" "How do you set healthy boundaries?" and "What are the best practices for managing screen time at different ages?"

[Music Fades Out]

Host: But before we dive in, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the Dad Shoes Podcast on your preferred platform. Your feedback means the world to us, and it keeps us motivated to continue sharing valuable insights for the modern dad.

[Upbeat Music Returns]

Host: So, settle in, relax, and join us in our quest to master the art of navigating screen time with our children. It's a journey that holds the promise of stronger family bonds, informed choices, and confident parenting.

[Music Fades Out]

“Tell me about your kids relationship with screen time”

Pull out your phone, what are your personal screen time numbers right now. 

 

Segment 1: The Impact of Prolonged Screen Time - Connor is the expert

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
  • Chive tv is my favorite thing to watch at sports bar
• Sexual content
• Negative stereotypes
• Substance use
• Cyberbullies and predators
• Advertising aimed at your child
• Misleading or inaccurate information

Too much screen time may lead to:

• Sleep problems
  • Johnny’s kids are hard to put down.
  • Connor stopped watching youtube with the kids and they are easier to put down.
• Lower grades in school
• Reading fewer books
• Less time with family and friends
• Not enough outdoor or physical activity
• Weight problems
• Mood problems
  • We have to take the tablets away periodically.
• Poor self-image and body image issues
• Fear of missing out
• Less time learning other ways to relax and have fun
  • I hate being told that my kids are bored so they want to play on their tablets….

I almost hated to include this list because I don't want to sound like fear mongers. Sure they are things that could happen, but unless the screen time is out of control I think you will be able to manage

• Discuss the findings from the News-Medical article on the sustained increase in children's screen time after COVID-19 restrictions were lifted.
• Share statistics on the amount of screen time kids typically consume.

Sources:

• News-Medical - In the Wake of COVID Restrictions Being Lifted, Kids' Screen Time Has Remained High
• AACAP - Children and Watching TV

 

Segment 2: The Importance of Setting Screen Time Limits and Content Parameters 

• Discuss the Mayo Clinic's recommendations on the importance of setting screen time limits.
  • The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages media use, except for video chatting, by children younger than 18 months. If you introduce digital media to children ages 18 to 24 months, make sure it's high quality and avoid solo media use. For children ages 2 to 5, limit screen time to one hour a day of high-quality programming.
• “A University of Cambridge study found that the brainwaves of adults and babies synchronize when they hold eye contact. Signaling the availability and intention to communicate might synchronize when it is time to speak and when to listen, which would make learning more effective.” - psychology today
• Share practical strategies for parents on how to establish these limits and enforce them.
• Share amazon tablet limit experience

Sources:

• Mayo Clinic - Screen Time and Children: How to Guide Your Child
• https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-fallible-mind/202012/link-between-screen-exposure-and-autism-symptoms

Segment 3: Finding the Right Balance

• Explore Forbes' insights into how to determine the appropriate amount of screen time for kids of different age groups.
• Discuss the concept of screen time as a tool rather than a detriment.

 

• Familiarize yourself with programming to make sure it is age-appropriate.
• Talk to your child about what they are seeing. Point out good behavior, such as cooperation, friendship, and concern for others. Make connections to meaningful events or places of interest.
• Be aware of advertising and how it influences choices.
• Encourage your child to learn other activities such as sports, music, art, and hobbies that do not involve screens.
• Set a good example with your own safe and healthy screen habits.
• Teach children about online privacy and safety.
• Actively decide when your child is ready for a personal device.
• Encourage using screens in ways that build creativity and connection with family and friends.
• Consider your child or teen’s maturity and habits. The right plan for one family may not be a good fit for another.

 

Sources:

• Forbes - How Much Screen Time Is Okay for Kids?

 

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. 

Conclusion:

Host: We hope this episode of The Dad Shoes Podcast has shed light on the delicate balance of screen time with your children. It's about finding the right balance and fostering healthy habits. Remember to lead by example and be an active participant in your child's screen time choices.

Outro:

[Music fades out.]

Host: If you found this episode helpful, please leave us a review on your preferred podcast platform and share it with other parents who might benefit from this discussion. We appreciate your support. Join us next week for another insightful episode of The Dad Shoes Podcast. Until then, keep those dad shoes on and make the most of your journey through fatherhood.

[Music fades out.]

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