subject: Too Much, Too Young?: Moderating Children's Computer Use [print this page] Many parents worry about their kid's computer use, but are there any clear-cut guidelines as to how much time kids should spend on computers? As a general rule, child development experts suggest a child should only have 1 to 2 hours 'screen time' a day, but that encompasses much more than just time in front of the computer. It also includes time spent watching TV, playing video consoles and using interactive devices like smart phones and tablets.
While we would all agree that a 2 hour limit is appropriate for children still in the very earliest stages of development (under 4 years), is this really a realistic figure for older kids who are firmly embedded in our digital world? Some parents would probably struggle to keep their kids away from TV's and computers for more than two hours a day, so perhaps this recommended limit needs to be considered in combination with a couple of other questions. What, for example, are the possible negative effects of too much computer time? Alternatively, are certain activities more beneficial than others, and does this affect the amount of time kids should spend pursuing them?
It is fairly well known, of course, that excessive time spent on computers or in front of TV screens can have a detrimental effect on several areas of a child's development. If these activities come to supersede or replace time spent outside or meeting with friends, children will inevitably be less fit and active and may lack important social skills that will be needed in later life. Some research studies have also suggested that extreme computer use, around 8 hours a day, can have serious effects on cognitive development and may even lead to atrophy in the brain. Other experts have linked too much time spent in front of the screen with decreased achievement at school and loss of confidence.
While some parents may find these findings worrying, it's important to note that they're only linked to extreme cases of computer overuse. Far from being the norm, they rather suggest the dangers that come with letting your children develop bad habits that may grow out of hand. But at the same time, can't some types of computer use be beneficial to a child's development and shouldn't we be encouraging them to spend more time on these activities?
Certainly, computers have opened a whole new avenue of opportunities for kids to learn, communicate with each other and enjoy themselves. Educational software can act as an important supplement to classroom education and may even feel like a more natural way of learning for computer-literate kids. Social networks and blogging sites provide accessible ways for kids to stay in touch and share ideas, while improving their writing skills. And some video games come in forms that test a child's problem-solving skills and improve their hand-eye co-ordination.
So what does this mean for the amount of time they should spend in front of a computer screen? In the end, it's a question of balance. Computer time can be a key factor in a child's successful development if it's used in a positive way that addresses their educational and social needs. At the same time, though, it will never replace a child's need to go outside and play with others, so the emphasis should always be on stopping the computer from taking over a child's life. In order to do this, you might wish to set a 2 hour a day limit in order to encourage good habits, but flexibility is also crucial in helping your kids develop a positive relationship with computers that helps their development.
