The time will come when parents will have to pry the remote or laptop out of your child’s hands and have the inevitable tug of war on how to limit screen time.
Parenting Tips: How to Limit Screen Time without a Temper Tantrum
Children these days spend hours in front of digital screens, which is more damaging than you think it might be. Not only can it have harmful effects on your kids’ eyes, but it can also lead to a sedentary lifestyle that opens the door to obesity.
If you’re concerned about the amount of time your children spend in front of the TV and computer, here are some tips on how to limit screen time to lessen the chances of harrowing temper tantrums.
Have Them Earn Their TV or Computer Privileges
When your kids have unlimited access to screen time, they’ll take it for granted and will become angry when you restrict access. Don’t use the restriction of screen time as a punishment, since this is negative reinforcement. Negative reinforcement isn’t very effective in changing behaviors.
Instead, change TV and computer time into rewards. For example, give your kids 30 minutes of TV if they complete their homework for the day. Not only does this make TV time a more pleasant thing to deal with, but they’ll be more eager to complete chores and tasks.
Use a Streaming Service with Parental Controls
If you’re not able to constantly monitor your children’s TV time constantly, then consider using a streaming service with parental controls, such as IPTV service. Not only can you set restrictions on the shows they can watch, but you can also set time limits on how long they can watch them for. Once the time limit is reached, your children will be blocked from any more TV time.
Provide Your Children with Fun Alternative Activities
When they’re sitting around with nothing to do, it’s easy for your kids to turn to the computer and TV to get rid of their boredom. Try and think up some fun family activities to do together so their attention is away from screens.
Whether it’s a scavenger hunt in the park or baking cakes together, you’ll have a great time bonding with your children. Plus, they won’t notice they’re missing out on screen time!
Set a Schedule and Adhere to It
By creating a regular screen time schedule, it’ll be harder for your children to whine and complain. Of course, this will only work if you adhere to it.
If there’s no iPad time an hour before bedtime, stick to this policy. Any exceptions to the rule will be used against you in the future, so be firm. There should be no ifs, ands, or buts about when they’re allowed to use the computer or watch TV.
Learn How to Limit Screen Time Effectively
When you know how to limit screen time effectively for your children, you’ll avoid agonizing tantrums and family fights. By using positive reinforcement and incorporating fun activities into your daily life, you can encourage your kids to get away from the TV and enjoy other activities with you.
Need more tips on making parenting more fun? Then check out this blog post about helping your kids study.
