Myths About Screen Time

[Dustin_V]

When we think about screen time, more often than not we tend to focus more on the negative rather than the positive – spending too much time with devices, being “addicted” to tablets or phones, or screen time doing more harm than good. Additionally, many tend to have thoughts & beliefs around screen time monitoring and limiting only applying to our kids. While these are some of the things that first come to mind when we think about screen time, some of those beliefs may not necessarily be true. As we continue to learn and better understand what’s good and what’s bad about screen time, here are 5 myths that we dispel:

Myth 1: My kid is addicted to devices

In a survey conducted by Common Sense Media, they found that 47% of parents feel that their child is addicted to their mobile devices. While that sentiment is understandable with the popularity of mobile devices amongst kids, Dr. Dmitri A Christakis at Seattle Children’s Reseach Institute says, “It affects, if you talk about true addiction, somewhere between 5% and 8% of children and young adults.”

Myth 2: All screen time is bad

Give a child a tablet and they will certainly find ways to keep entertained. The endless number of hours spent watching toy unboxings or playing games can be seen as unhealthy screen time, but usage like connecting with family members though video calls and spending quality time with loved ones can be seen as healthy screen time. According to a 2018 study in Child Development, “digital screen use has little to no effect on a child’s psychological well-being.” With that said, what’s even more important is how parents set rules for screen time and how engaged they are in what their kids are watching.

Myth 3: Video games can cause depression

Through the years, there has always been a concern from parents about video games and the amount of time their kids spend playing. Despite those concerns, studies have actually shown that certain games can improve skills like hand-eye coordination, problem-solving skills and the mind’s ability to process information. JAMA Pediatrics published a study uncovering that when it came to its effect on teen depression, video gaming was the one form of screen time that was neutral in comparison to others.

Myth 4: Screen time limits are just for kids

Whether at work, home, or in-between adults spend an average of 11 hours a day in front of screens. Pew Research Center conducted a survey with parents, uncovering that 60% of parents themselves struggle with the same device distractions as their kids. With that said, modeling healthy screen time habits will go a long way.

Myth 5: It’s too late to set limits in my home

Setting consistent time limits can help lead kids on the path to a healthier digital lifestyle, regardless of age. This opens up the opportunity to have conversation with your kids to discuss screen time house rules. By leveraging tools like NETGEAR’s Smart Parental Controls, you can even customize Time Limits, Filters, Bedtimes and Off Times, helping you create a balance between screen time, schoolwork, activities, and sleep.

Has debunking these myths helped changed your thoughts about screen time? Let us know by commenting below!