Like many new moms, I was bombarded with advice when my first child was born. I was given guidance on things like when and how he should eat and sleep — and even how he should play and learn. As a first-time mom trying to follow all the rules, it was quite overwhelming. One topic that came up while we were still in the hospital was the amount of ‘screen time’ my son should have and at what age. Ultimately, our family made the decision to avoid exposing my son to electronic devices until after this second birthday because of the benefits to his developmental skills and physical health.
Research shows that face-to-face interaction with trusted caregivers helps an infant’s brain development — to help advance social and language skills and other early learning skills . And there are benefits to their physical bodies as well. Time spent viewing TV, videos, playing computer or video games or using any other electronic device for leisure is associated with sedentary behavior, one of the risk factors for childhood obesity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends strategies that restrict screen time, in addition to other policy strategies, to support healthy active living for children and families in an effort to prevent childhood obesity.
According to the CDC, about 1 out of every 5 (17%) children in the United States is overweight or obese. While childhood obesity affects all ethnic groups, it disproportionately impacts certain racial and minority groups. Children and adolescents who are American Indian and Alaska Natives, Hispanics or African Americans are more likely to be obese, compared to non-Hispanic White children.
Childhood obesity is influenced by family history and lifestyle factors. While we can’t change our genes, we can change lifestyle factors, such as eating right, getting regular physical activity and reducing sedentary behaviors . The average screen time for children and adolescents (8 to 18 years old) in the Unites States is more than 7 hours a day, and children who watch more than 2 hours a day of TV are more likely to be overweight or obese as they get older. [i] Obesity is associated with numerous chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, asthma, and sleep apnea.
If you could use a break from the screen in your home, a Family Media Plan may help you to establish some rules and cut back. Other tips to reduce screen time include:
- Setting a good example
- Establishing limits
- Creating screen-free bedrooms
During National Childhood Obesity Month , the HHS Office of Minority Health encourages parents and caregivers to shift the balance between screen time and active play. Be sure to visit the OMH website to download resources to help prevent and reduce childhood obesity. When it comes to our children’s health, we can provide them with the tools to live healthier lives. My family did it and so can yours!