One expert cited warned that children would face “addiction withdrawal” from their electronics once they exited lockdown.
Many parents are having none of the finger-wagging, however.
“Online is their only way to socialize with friends (Zoom, Houseparty, etc.
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“It allows me the time to get things done because we can’t have sitters and nannies anymore.
They are with me 24/7, and I need to get things done as well.
Sometimes, I just need a break, and screen time keeps them entertained.”
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They have read about the studies linking screen time with everything fromincreased obesitytomore anxietyamong children.
Now, 70% estimate their kids spend at least four hours with screens.
But not all experts agree that screen time is terrible.
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“I venture to encourage parents to venture to prioritize connection over control.
She works as the business and human resources manager ofViage LLC, a consulting and engineering services firm.
Her kids spend “significantly” more time on screens, she admitted.
“They play Roblox and Minecraft with friends while also talking to them on Houseparty,” she wrote.
Quality Vs. “My older son’s uses technology (gaming, discord, etc.)
to communicate with friends,” Silver said.
“His social outlet is using his technology.
Gone are the days of spending hours talking on the phone.
My younger son who socializes differently uses technology for entertainment and communication.”
And shes found that theres a silver lining to all the screen time.
Her older son learned how to build a computer from YouTube.
“He practiced his organizational and negotiating skills so that we could approve the costs,” she said.
My son uses his computer every day (school and friends), and I am thankful.
It’s expanded his interests.
I also am on the continual lookout for specific graphics cards.”
Now, she’s on her iPad about 2-3 hours a day.
“Also, we work to counterbalance any effects that cause worry.
“Kids are not getting their social needs met,” she said.
Yet, they’ve been unnaturally paused in their growth and development, some stunted.”
We can all agree that too much screen time is bad for kids.
These arent ideal times for anyone, though.
Lets give the kids and their parents a break.
