How do you balance screen time for students?

1 Benefits of screen time

Screen time is not inherently bad and can actually offer many benefits for students, such as accessing educational resources, developing digital literacy, enhancing creativity, engaging with diverse perspectives, and connecting with peers and mentors. It can also support students' well-being during challenging times by providing a sense of belonging, fun, and relaxation.

2 Risks of screen time

However, screen time can also be risky and come with some concerning effects. For instance, students may be exposed to inappropriate or harmful content, be distracted from their academic and personal goals, have reduced physical activity and sleep quality, as well as increased stress and anxiety. Additionally, too much screen time can impair social and emotional skills, interfere with their attention, memory, creativity, and critical thinking, and make them more prone to addiction, aggression, and depression. Ultimately, it can affect students' brain development, learning, and behavior.

3 Guidelines for screen time

Balancing screen time for students is complex, as different students have different needs and preferences. To make informed decisions, follow the recommendations of reputable organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the World Health Organization (WHO), which suggest limiting screen time to 1-2 hours per day for children aged 2-5, and no more than 2 hours per day for children aged 6 and older. Consider the quality, purpose, and context of screen time to determine which activities are more educational, creative, interactive, age-appropriate, and require more supervision. Involve your students in setting screen time rules and goals. Help them understand the benefits and risks of screen time, and encourage them to make smart choices. Work together to create a plan that suits their individual needs and interests.

4 Tips for screen time

In addition to following the guidelines above, there are a few tips to help you balance screen time for students. Model healthy screen time habits and show your students how you use it for learning, work, and leisure. Monitor their screen time with apps and tools, review the data regularly with them, and adjust the plan as needed. Provide alternatives to screen time such as books, games, toys, art supplies, and hobbies. Encourage them to join clubs, teams, and groups and support them in pursuing their goals and dreams. Showing your challenges and successes with screen time can help your students understand the importance of balance.

5 Challenges of screen time

Balancing screen time for students is not easy, and you may face several challenges. Your students may not agree with your rules and goals, and they may argue, complain, or rebel. They may also feel pressure from their peers, media, and culture to fit in or follow trends. Furthermore, their screen time needs and preferences may change over time due to new situations or unexpected disruptions.

6 Solutions for screen time

Balancing screen time for students can be a challenge, but there are solutions to try. Communicate and negotiate with your students, listening to their views and feelings, while explaining your own expectations. Educate and empower them on the benefits and risks of screen time, as well as how to use it responsibly. Finally, support and encourage them, showing that you care about their well-being and success. Provide positive feedback and reinforcement, helping them to cope with any difficulties they may face with screen time. Remind them of their strengths and potential.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?