Tips to Recalibrate Screen Time Under Shelter in Place
I came across a great article in the NY Times by Anya Kamenetz, education reporter for NPR and author of “The Art of Screen Time”. As a full time working parent who lectures about screen time all over the country, she uses this article to reframe the issue of screen time during the time of COVID. The screen rules that were in place before shelter in place no longer have the same meaning or value for most families. Life for her and for most parents has dramatically changed as kids regular summer and school routines were interrupted last Spring. And with no end in sight she offers up some new screen time guidelines:
Look for ways to connect with others even if it's online. Watch or play online together with your kids.
With kids on screens longer choose content that is slow and doesn’t attempt to manipulate the viewer into wanting more. Podcasts and read-alouds on YouTube are some suggestions
If you can’t limit screen time because you need to get something done, have a “Plan B” to help you weather the adverse effects of too much time on screens (aka a meltdown). She suggests physical activity, a snack, a quick card game or a story. In addition, have compassion for yourself and your situation when you need to have your kids on screens to get something done.
Don't use screens to numb out emotions. Find time and space to talk about big feelings at this unprecedented stressful time. Check in with kids about how they are doing and let them know it’s ok not to be ok. Help them brainstorm screen free ways that can help them feel better when they are having a tough day. A hug, a favorite book or story, listening to a favorite song or going for a walk are some suggestions.
With school starting on line for most kids, parents will be balancing work, home and schooling demands. Managing screen time will continue to be a big part of our parenting decisions. With some intention, understanding and compassion we can continue to find balance even if it looks very different than it did at this same time last year.
Find the full article here.
