Managing Screen Use Among Children and Adolescents

Disclaimer: This material is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it. It is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, nor does it replace the advice or counsel of a doctor or health care professional. Reference to a specific commercial product or service does not imply endorsement or recommendation of that product or service by CPCMG.

Overview

Establishing a healthy screen and technology culture in your home is increasingly important as functionality of devices continues to rapidly evolve. Studies show that excess screen time lead to decreased physical and mental health and increased behavioral problems such as aggression and social isolation. Caregivers should set clear boundaries from a young age and establish limits on screen time if poor habits are already in place. “Screen time” includes time spent watching TV or online shows, movies, YouTube videos, browsing the internet and social media, chatting/texting with friends using any electronic device – computer/laptop, tablet, or smartphone.

The key is responsible use among all ages. Parents should discuss and set values in their homes and decide where screen time best fits within their schedules and family culture. Best outcomes for families are linked to the examples set by caregivers. Parents should first review their own relationship with their electronic devices and consider limiting their use in front of kids to strictly necessary functions.

Helpful Websites for Parents

https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/Bright%20Futures/BF4_HealthySocialMedia.pdf

This publication was authored by CPCMG Associate Director of Behavioral Mental Health, Dr. Patty Lee, and Harrison Howard, P.A.

Reviewed by: HH P.A., PL M.D., HB M.D. | 06/2024