Get Unplugged!
We all know that children and adults today are spending too much time in front of screens whether it’s TV, computer, video games or phones. I found myself having a bit of a panic attack recently when my own phone went missing for a half an hour. A common nightly occurrence in many households is everyone being in front of a screen of their choice (IPAD, laptop, phone, TV, video game). So how important is it to unplug your family and get everyone outside?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children ages 0-2 have NO screen time and children older than two are limited to two hours of screen time a day. So what is the research telling us are the effects of too much screen time?
Kids need to play, socialize and explore their environment in order to physically and mentally develop. Screen time interferes with this important development. Also children who spend too much time in front of screens are more likely to be or become obese. Watching television on a regular basis (even cartoons and G rated shows) exposes children to unhealthy amounts of violence, risky behaviors and disrespectful language and behaviors.
Older children and adolescents also have a lot of added pressure with Facebook and texting. Instead of their social day ending at the end of the school day, many Jr. High and high school students spend hours on texting and Facebook trying to stay connected. This can led to problems with stress, anxiety and cyber bullying.
Cornell University psychologist Nancy M. Wells PhD. studied the benefits of kids connecting to nature and playing outside. This research found that the more kids spent outdoors in nature the better they functioned both cognitively and emotionally. The kids who spent less time in front of screens and more time outside playing and exploring, showed better concentration, focus and behavior in school, increased ability to cope with stress and were more effective learners. Kids who spent more time outdoors were more physically fit as kids and adults. Lastly, these kids were more likely to take an interest in caring for the Earth as both kids and adults.
So what new rules can families put into place to help unplug from the screens and plug into nature? Here are some suggestions to consider.
- Setting a time limit on screen time (this includes mom and dad).
- Jr. High and High school students turn the phone off and give to a parent at 8pm.
- Weather permitting, family walks or outside time for at least 30 minutes a day.
- Pick one day a month where everyone completely unplugs and spends the day outside.
- Have a family picnic where no electronics are allowed and everyone has to communicate face to face.
- Plant a garden in your yard.
Kids and adults will benefit from connecting to nature. Give it a try and see what improvements you see in your family!
Maggie Bagley is a licensed clinical social worker who has extensive experience working with children with Autism, ADHD, anxiety and behavioral disorders. She is a therapist and owner at One Counseling and Wellness.
