Screen usage dropped by an average of 5.9 hours per week in 12-15 year olds
A new study has found that limiting children’s screen time to just three hours per week can significantly improve their mental well-being within days.
The study, published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics, involved 1,000 children aged 12-15 who were randomly assigned to either a three-hour screen time limit or no limit. The children in the screen time limit group saw their screen usage drop by an average of 5.9 hours per week, and their mental well-being scores improved significantly within just two weeks.
The study found that the children in the screen time limit group had:
* Reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety
* Improved sleep quality
* Increased physical activity
* Improved social skills
The researchers say that the findings suggest that screen time limits can be an effective way to improve mental well-being in children. They recommend that parents set limits on their children’s screen time and encourage them to engage in other activities, such as playing outside, reading, or spending time with friends.
How to set screen time limits for your child
If you’re concerned about your child’s screen time usage, there are a few things you can do to set limits:
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Talk to your child about screen time
Explain to your child why it’s important to limit screen time and set clear rules about how much screen time they’ll be allowed each day.
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Set up screen-free zones
Create some areas in your home where screens are not allowed, such as the dinner table or the bedrooms.
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Use parental controls
Many devices have built-in parental controls that allow you to set limits on how much time your child can spend on them.
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Encourage other activities
Make sure your child has plenty of other activities to keep them occupied, such as playing outside, reading, or spending time with friends.
Benefits of reducing screen time for children
There are many benefits to reducing screen time for children, including:
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If you’re concerned about your child’s screen time usage, talk to them about it and set some limits. You may be surprised at how quickly you see an improvement in their mental well-being.
Kind regards F. Hillsom.
