In this day and age, many toddlers know how to operate a tablet before they can even read. While some media can have educational value for children over the age of 18 months (and distract rambunctious ones while parents are occupied), the American Academy of Pediatrics warns digital media exposure should be limited. Carrier Learning Center in Bristol, CT, agrees, adding it’s important to find a balance between technology and creative play.

With children under the age of nine spending more than two hours a day in front of a screen, these early childhood education experts often educate parents on how to get kids to unplug. Here are a couple of simple ideas:

• Set Rules: Establish limits on the amount of time your kids can spend playing on a tablet or watching television. There are many apps that allow you to lock screens after a certain amount of time is spent on a device. Make sure to stick to these rules.
• Establish Banned Zones: In addition to limiting screen exposure, parents should also designate which areas of the home are off-limits for devices. Some examples include bedrooms to make falling asleep easier, as well as dining rooms and kitchen tables so kids aren’t distracted while eating.
• Make Certain Times Screen Free: These early childhood education experts encourage parents to restrict screen access during certain parts of the day as well. In addition to during mealtime, consider limiting technology right before bed, while completing homework, or until chores are done.
• Encourage Alternate Extracurriculars: Often, children watch television or use tablets out of boredom. Introduce your preschool-aged child to fun alternate activities that will challenge their minds and bodies, such as reading a book, playing a board game, or going on a bike ride.
• Engage With Your Children: Parents should not get into the habit of using screens as babysitters. Instead of handing over a tablet to distract your child after dinner, engage with them instead. Have a conversation about their day, create plays with their dolls, or take the family dog for a walk around the neighborhood.

When it comes to early childhood education, no one understands the importance of a well-rounded child quite like Carrier Learning Center. Little ones from six weeks to 12 years old requiring after-school programs benefit from daycare services that challenge them to learn, grow, and succeed. This learning center also has experience with kids who have special needs and learning disabilities. To learn more about their child care services or inquire about enrollment, give them a call today at (860) 589-3000.