Will Unlimited Social Media Time Over Summer Impact Your Child?
Our kids deserve a break from school and daily routines over summer vacation. However, days upon days of unstructured idle time can do more harm than good — especially with the rising use of social media among children and teens.
A recent U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory warned of a relationship between excessive social media use and poor sleep quality, reduced sleep duration, sleep difficulties, and depression among young people. Fortunately, you can take steps to limit social media’s impact on your children’s health this summer.
What Can Parents Do?
1. Create tech-free zones & schedules
Around 1 in 3 adolescents report using screens (often to access social media) until midnight or later, and one survey shows teenagers spend an average of 3.5 hours on social media per day. Removing technology from bedrooms or limiting its use after certain times helps limit social media before bedtime, promoting more restful sleep. Creating tech-free blocks in your family’s schedule, such as at dinnertime, can also help limit social media use and promote in-person interaction.
2. Lead by example
Children often mimic the behavior they observe, so make a conscious effort to reduce your own use of technology and social media. When they see you actively participating in other activities and valuing face-to-face interactions, they are more likely to follow suit. You should also explain the reasons why you are putting limits on your family’s amount of screen time and social media use.
3. Encourage in-person socializing
Limiting screen use helps to keep your children engaged in the present moment and with others around them. You can organize family outings, game nights, or picnics where everyone can enjoy one another’s company — without the distraction of checking on social media. Let your children invite friends over to further help promote social interaction and in-person connection.
Let’s help our kids have a healthy summer, together
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