In today's digital age screen devices have become an integral part of our life. They are used extensively in every day activities.

From tablets and smart phones to computers and televisions, it is hard to imagine life without these devices. However, as a parent managing screen time of kids can be really a difficult task.

 Whether the children are watching their favourite program, playing a game on a screen device or coloring on an app, they are spending much more time with screen devices than playing outside or engaging in physical activities

Excessive use of digital devices can lead to a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, sleep deprivation and reduced attention span.

Here are the top five tips for parents to navigate the screen time of their kids

1- Set Screen Free Zone

Designate certain areas or times of the day as screen free zone where no one is allowed to use screen devices. For example, make your dinning tables or bed rooms screen free zone.

It will help create boundaries and spend quality time with family and friends. By setting screen free zone you are teaching your kids that there is a time and place where screen can be used and that some moments are best spent screen free

2- Establish Screen Time Limit

Develop a schedule of screen time to minimize the usage  of screen devices. Certain parental control app and software can help parents keep a check on time utilized by the kids on screen devices

The American Academy of pediatric recommended following safe time limit of using screen devices for kids of different age group in a day

• No time for kids two years or below
• One hour for kids aged group between two to twelve
• One to two hours for kids above twelve or teenage adults

3- Encourage Physical Activities:

Engage your kids in different physical activities. Put down the smart phones and go outside for a walk with your kids. 

Physical activities have endless health benefits. They enhance endorphin level in the body, which cause happiness and reduce anxiety and depression.

4- Monitor Content

Certain content available on different websites and app are inappropriate for kids mental health. Parental control app and software can be used to track and block access to inappropriate content. Content monitoring is essential for parents to ensure the physical and metal well-being of kids.

5- Lead by Example

kids learn from the behaviour and attitude of adults. Model healthy screen habit by yourself. Try to avoid spending much time on screen devices in the presence of kids.

Additional Tips

• Create a screen time plan
• Set up screen free days or weekend
• Encourage reading in your environment.
• Develop interest in puzzles solving and mind games  that help build cognitive skills.

Navigating screen time is an ongoing process. It requires patience, consistency and creativity. Remember, it is not about completely eliminating screens from their routines but finding a balance in their lives

By being proactive or setting a positive example enables your kids to navigate digital word with confidence and a sense of responsibility 

Start your journey and watch your kids thrive in a world that is increasingly digital