In an age where digital devices are an integral part of our daily lives, children are growing up with unprecedented access to screens. This phenomenon has led parents everywhere to look for ways to balance their children's screen time. While technology offers undeniable benefits, it is essential to understand and manage its impact on children.
Current trends in screen time in children
Recent research, such as the 2023 Iene Miene Media survey, reveals that children up to 6 years old spend an average of 100 minutes per day on screens, an increase from last year. What is more striking is that a quarter of babies between 9 months and 1 year old look at a screen for more than two hours a day. These figures are alarming because they point to a trend where screens are playing an increasingly dominant role in the lives of even the youngest children.
Negative consequences of too much screen time
Experts such as Peter Nikken, affiliated with Netwerk Mediawijsheid, warn about the negative consequences of excessive screen use. Long-term exposure to screens can lead to sleep problems, delays in language development, obesity and myopia. In addition, it contributes to a sedentary lifestyle, which can start at a young age and cause long-term health problems.
The benefits of less screen time
Limiting screen time not only gives children an opportunity to avoid these negative effects, but also encourages a healthier lifestyle. Children who spend less time in front of screens have more time for physical activity, creative play and social interactions, all of which are crucial for balanced development.
Recommended screen times
The World Health Organization has drawn up guidelines. The screen time guidelines by age group help parents find a healthy balance:
- 0 to 2 years : It is recommended not to expose babies to screens at all.
- 2 to 4 years : Limit screen time to a maximum of 30 minutes per day.
- 4 to 6 years : Maximum 1 hour per day, ideally divided into 15-minute sessions.
- 6 to 8 years : Limit screen time to a maximum of 1 hour per day, preferably divided into two 30-minute sessions.
- 8 to 10 years : 1 to 1.5 hours per day is acceptable, depending on the content and interaction with the screens.
- 10 to 12 years : Up to 2 hours per day, with an emphasis on educational or creative content.
- 12 years and older : Up to 3 hours, but with strict regulation of the quality and type of media consumption.
How Zappie helps: hands-on learning and playing
Zappie offers a creative alternative to digital screens through hands-on educational play sets. These playsets encourage children to build, experiment and discover, which contributes to their motor skills and problem-solving skills. This form of play allows children to develop their creativity and imagination, essential for their overall development, without having to rely on digital stimuli.
Family dynamics and screen time management: tips from an expert
Femke Wester, an experienced adolescent girl coach, shares her personal struggles and professional advice on managing screen time at home. She emphasizes the importance of family involvement in establishing rules around screen use. By setting rules with children and having discussions about the impact of too much screen time, parents can help shape healthy perceptions and uses of technology.
The role of parents
Consistency of parents in adhering to these rules and showing exemplary behavior is crucial. Addressing their own screen habits and actively participating in physical and creative activities with their children reinforces the message that life beyond the screen is enriching and essential.
In conclusion
The fight against excessive screen use is a shared responsibility of parents, educators and communities. Zappie's mission is to contribute to this fight through playful, educational products, by offering children an attractive alternative to digital screens. Let's work together to provide our children with a healthy, balanced future.