Page 13 - Prevention (February 2020)
P. 13
NEWS TO KNOW
THE CASE AGAINST
SCREEN TIME
A growing body of research suggests habits down the line by following these
that too much screen time in childhood recommendations from the American
hampers brain development, most Academy of Pediatrics:
recently a small study published in • Avoid use of digital media for kids
JAMA Pediatrics. Researchers from younger than 18 months.
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical
• Limit screen use to one hour or less
Center found that among kids 3 to
for kids 2 to 5, and choose high-quality/
5 years old, those who spent more
educational programming; when pos-
than one hour a day in front of an
sible, watch with them so they under-
electronic device had lower levels of
stand what they’re seeing and learn to
brain development in regions that
apply it to the world around them.
support language and self-regulation
than those who interacted with screens • Designate media-free times together
for less time. Protect growing minds and screen-free zones in the home,
and set children up for smarter screen such as children’s bedrooms.
Children ages 8 to
10 spend about six
hours a day in front
of electronic screens,
four of which are
in front of the TV,
says the Centers for
GETTY IMAGES. Prevention.
Disease Control and
