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Screens are everywhere, from phones and tablets to TVS and laptops. 

It can be tricky for parents to decide how much screen time is healthy and what kind of content is best for their children. 

This article will help you understand the basics of healthy screen time use at home.

Quality Over Quantity

When it comes to screen time, what your child is doing is just as important as how long they’re doing it. Watching random videos for hours is different from learning something new or creating something. 

Try to choose educational apps or creative games. Watch or play together when you can. This helps you stay involved and makes the experience more fun for your child.

Follow Age-Appropriate Guidelines

Experts like the American Academy of Paediatrics recommend screen time based on age. Babies under 18 months should not have screen time, except for video calls with family. 

Kids between 18 and 24 months can watch short, educational videos with a parent. Children aged 2 to 5 should have no more than one hour of screen time a day, and it should be good-quality content. 

For kids older than 6, it’s best to focus on healthy habits, like turning off screens at bedtime or during meals.

Watch for Health Effects

Too much screen time can affect your child’s physical and mental health. It can cause sore eyes, headaches, and even sleep problems.

Some kids may become less active and feel moody or have trouble focusing. 

To help with this, suggest activities such as going outside, drawing, or playing games without devices.

Set Clear Rules at Home

Creating rules about screen time can make things easier for everyone. You could have screen-free zones, like the dinner table or bedrooms. You might also set time limits for using tablets or watching TV. 

Many phones, tablets, and computers now have parental control settings that help you manage what your child can see and how long they can use the device. You can also learn about online privacy, such as understanding how an IP address works, for better digital safety.

Encourage Different Activities

Kids don’t need to spend all their time on screens. Try to include other fun things in their day, like reading, building with blocks, or spending time outside. 

If your child loves watching shows or playing games, that’s okay too, as long as it doesn’t take over everything else. 

You can also talk to them about what they’re watching or playing to help them think more about the content.

Be a Good Example

Children often copy what they see. If you use screens all the time, they may want to do the same. 

Try putting your phone away during family meals or before bed. Show your kids that taking breaks from screens and enjoying other things in life is okay.