In this age of digitalisation and the internet of things, kids start using advanced technological devices at an incredibly early age. There has been an increase in the usage of devices such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and gaming consoles, thus, making it necessary for parents to deal with the aspect of screen time limits for their children. Although technology has numerous benefits when it comes to education, it has risks associated with overuse such as health issues, psychological issues and problems of social engagement.

To help children succeed at school and lead healthy lives, parents need strategies that will help their children shift their focus from screens to studying and back again. In this blog, parents will find a few useful strategies aimed at preventing the excessive use of gadgets by children, providing beneficial tips on how to combine study and screen time.

1. Recognise the need for both screen time and study time

At the outset of any effort towards improving balance between screen time and study time, parents must appreciate the merits of each. Screen time is not necessarily bad and when it is effective and purposeful, it aids one in learning and building on creativity or socialising. There are resources too in the form of educational games, courses or books offered online.

Nevertheless, excessive screen time, especially only for entertainment or passive activities without proper regulation, can result in adverse factors such as bad posture, damaged eyesight, short attention spans, and minimal social relationship.

2. Practice ideal behaviour

It has been noted that children have a tendency of imitating their parent’s behaviour. If the adults are staring at their phones, laptops, or the television for long hours, the children are bound to do the same. Hence the parents' responsibility of properly demonstrating screen practices cannot be overemphasised.

3. Turn down your own screen hours

Teach kids that there are other activities aside from using screens such as reading a book, inculcating a hobby or even talking to family members. Institute quality family hours by setting hours when the members of the family will not use any gadgets. This encourages contact and interaction among family members and children particularly learn the idea of moderation of screen time.

4. Make only educational screen time a priority

If children are to be put in front of the screens, there is a need to direct them only to sources that contain some educational material. Also, there are many sites online including games and recreation that can help a lot in studying, creativity development, and in developing analytical and critical thinking abilities.

5. Opt for apps and games that provide learning

Make sure that, screen time is used for positive engagement rather than for passive watching TV and engaging in social media surfing.

6. Encourage physical activity

One of the main risks of excessive screen time is a sedentary lifestyle. Encouraging regular physical activity is essential for a child’s physical and mental well-being. Ensure that your child’s day includes time for outdoor play, sports, or any other form of physical exercise.

7. Monitor Content and Usage

As much as screen time needs to be regulated, it is equally important to monitor what children are accessing online. Parents need to be aware of the content their children are consuming and the platforms they are using.

8. Use parental control tools

Most devices come with built-in parental controls that allow parents to restrict access to certain websites, apps, and games. Make use of these tools to ensure your child is only exposed to age-appropriate content.

9. Discuss online safety

Instruct and sensitise your child about the importance of online privacy, responsible behaviour on social media, and the potential risks of interacting with strangers online. Awareness of online safety can help prevent potential issues related to excessive or inappropriate screen use.

10. Create a healthy and happy environment at home

A nurturing and cheerful home environment is not just a place of comfort and joy; it is a crucial foundation that profoundly impacts every aspect of a child’s life. Open and respectful communication, spending quality time together as a family, making time for play and leading by example are a few ways in which we shape not only our homes but also the futures of our children, offering them the enduring gift of a joyful and loving environment in which to grow and flourish.

Conclusion
There should always be a pursuit of finding that perfect equilibrium between screen time and study time; this, as one would imagine, takes some focus, planning and adaptability. A parental influence is essential for a child’s attainment of healthy, technology related behaviours and at the same time allows for a constructive learning schedule. Children can be raised in a positive growth environment by making explicit rules, practicing what is right, promoting exercise, and keeping a check on what content is consumed by children all at the same time nurturing their intellectual growth and play.