Wellbeing

Image source: https://www.21kschool.com/ua/blog/screen-time-for-kids/

📱 Screen Time Balance: Healthy Digital Habits

Screens are part of everyday life — for schoolwork, connecting with friends, or relaxing. But too much recreational screen time can interfere with sleep, physical activity, social connection, and emotional well-being.

Why manage screen time?

Many Australian children exceed recommended limits for recreational screen use.
Excessive screen time, especially before bed, can disrupt sleep and make it harder to concentrate the following day.
Too much screen time can have negative effects on a child’s health and well-being. It has been linked to behavioural problems, anxiety, hyperactivity, difficulties paying attention, low self-esteem, and poor psychosocial health.

Tips for a healthier balance

Set daily limits for recreational screens (games, videos, social media) — aim for no more than 2 hours per day for children aged 5–17 (outside of schoolwork)
Turn off screens at least one hour before bedtime to support better sleep.
Choose quality content and educational or creative apps/games over passive viewing.
Use screens with your child or discuss what they are seeing/doing online.
Offer alternative off-screen activities — playing outside, drawing, board games, reading, and crafting.
Be a role model — also limit your own screen habits and show times when devices are “put away.”

Links with more information:

https://www.sydney.edu.au/news-opinion/news/2024/08/09/how-does-screen-time-affect-kids--health-.html