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Today, children spend much of their free time before screens—a trend with noticeable effects in homes, schools, social settings, and learning centers across America. According to surveys conducted by Common Sense Media, kids eight and under spend roughly two hours each day using televisions, computers, and smartphones to mostly play games and watch videos. While these technologies can also be beneficial and educational, a growing body of research associates unregulated screen time with problems in early childhood learning and development.

The Effects of Screen Time

There are two main concerns related to children’s screen time: potential physical and psychological effects. The more time kids spend in front of a screen, the less they exercise, which impacts their health and physical development. Too much screen time can also affect a child’s social skills and general behavior, as well as form addictive habits which perpetuate the negative cycle. The more accustomed and dependent they become on devices for stimulation, the more difficult it is for parents, schools, and learning centers to engage them in the curriculum or other activities.

Setting Boundaries

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children 18 months and under should not have any screen time daily, while kids ages two to five should be limited to one hour daily of high-quality educational programming. For older kids, parents should exercise judgment to set consistent limits which work for their family. Choosing a healthy amount of positive, age-appropriate programming is an important part of child care in the modern world.

Alternate Activities

Learning CentersEnsure your child spends plenty of time away from the screen by providing a range of other fun and stimulating choices. Sports and science toys and art supplies encourage creative play. Read to your kids and take them to the library or store to choose books they like. Enroll your little one in a learning center as early as possible to give them educational opportunities and time to socialize outside the home. 

 

If you’re looking for a learning center in Cortlandt Manor, NY, turn to A Rising Star Children’s Center. The respected preschool and after-school care provider boasts over 40 years of combined experience in teaching and child care. Their programs include everything from language development to critical thinking skills. To enroll your kid, call (914) 788-4582 today or get in touch online.

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