In today’s world, screens are everywhere, from smartphones and tablets to TVs and computers. For parents of preschool-age children, navigating how much screen time is too much can be overwhelming. Research suggests that excessive screen time can affect young children’s development, impacting attention span, language skills, and social interaction. But is it all bad? What’s the right balance?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends limiting screen time for children aged 2 to 5 years to one hour of high-quality programming per day. Studies show the importance of hands-on play, physical activity, and face-to-face interaction for cognitive and emotional development.

Keeping the right balance between screen time and other developmental needs is the way forward.

Here are few Tips for Parents:

• Parents can be role models by practicing healthy screen habits themselves.
• Create a “screen-free zone” at home where children engage in unstructured play, board games, reading and outdoor activities.
• Use educational apps or videos that promote active learning rather than passive consumption. For example, interactive games that require children to answer questions or solve problems can be more beneficial than passive watching.
• Engage your child in conversations and real-world activities, like cooking, grocery shopping, nature walk, caring for people and animals around us.  These moments can be more enriching than any app or game.

At Arise ‘n’ Shine we help children develop a love for learning in a screen-smart way. Our classrooms are designed to be engaging and full of opportunities for imaginative play, arts and crafts, and outdoor exploration like nature and gardening that don’t require screens. Our preschool incorporates tech in a purposeful way, like interactive storybooks, learning apps that enhance literacy or math skills, and virtual field trips for themes like animals or outer space.

Technology is here to stay, but it’s how we use it that makes all the difference in a child’s development. Our primary responsibilities as parents and educators are to help the Gen Alpha and Beta kids strike a balance between screen time and physical, emotional, and cognitive growth.

If you’re interested in learning more about how we help balance screen time with hands-on learning, speak with our counselor at 9840570309 or join us for our ongoing free family workshops.