Counselor's Corner

Summer Vacation Screen Time

It is no secret that the amount of time adolescents spend in front of screens (TVs, Computers, Phones, Tablets, etc.) increases exponentially over summer vacation.  According to the the American Academy of Pediatrics(AAP) “Studies have shown that excessive media use can lead to attention problems, school difficulties, sleep and eating disorders, and obesity." Increased screen time comes at the expense of other, more healthy activities such as socializing (in person) with friends, physical activity, reading, imaginative play and so on. The AAP recommends limiting adolescent screen time to 2 or less hours daily. You can read more about this by clicking here.

How Do I Limit Access?

Strategies for limiting access include modeling healthy electronic use, setting specific times to "unplug" and making access to screen time a privilege, not a right. VeryWellFamily.com published an article with more tips which you can access by clicking here. To put it simply, common thought is that the most beneficial solution is to get outside with your family more often, so go enjoy the great summer weather and see you next school year!

-Mr. K   =)