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Navigating screen time with our children is a topic that can leave us pondering, but let's break it down together. Many of us are raising kids without the old-fashioned village support, and that's where screens sometimes step in to help. It's important not to judge each other's choices in this realm.
The truth is, we can manage screen time thoughtfully, and if we had clearer information, it'd be much easier to do without feeling judged.
So, do we really need a TV at home? Actually, no.
Can TV time support our child's learning journey? Absolutely, yes!
Now, let's make this practical. The first question: when should TV time start?
For little ones, especially under 2 years old, it's best to keep screen time minimal or none at all. That means supervised video chats can work. For older kids (2 to 5 years old), experts suggest limiting screen time to about 1 hour of good-quality stuff per day.
But why is too much TV not good for kids under 2?
Young kids learn so much from their surroundings. Their brains are soaking up everything like sponges. They need real interactions with us and unstructured playtime to grow well. Too much TV can replace these important things and cause issues like slow language development, trouble paying attention, and even sleep problems.
When we don't let their brains grow the right way during this time, it can affect how they think and learn in the future.
Using screens to make mealtime easier might seem like a solution, but it brings its own set of problems. (Want tips for smoother mealtimes?)
For kids under 2, the best thing is creating safe areas with simple toys and giving them your full attention when you can. Making play spaces like the Montessori way can be a winner. And don't forget, doing chores together might take longer, but it's worth it in unexpected ways!
So, here's the bottom line: TV can be a friend to your child's learning journey, as long as we use it wisely and mix it with plenty of real-world experiences. It's all about finding that balance that fits your family.
