Recommended Guidelines for Screen Time with Educational Games

This post contains effective guidelines for screen time with educational video games, feel free to share it with any parents you know.

a young girl watching an educational show on her tablet
Photo by Arina Krasnikova

Recommended Guidelines

  1. Establish Age-Appropriate Limits:
    • Set reasonable daily screen time limits based on your child’s age. Guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) can be useful in determining suitable durations. AAP Guidelines
  2. Balance Screen Time with Other Activities:
    • Encourage a balance between screen time and other essential activities, including outdoor play, reading, and social interactions.
  3. Prioritize Quality Content:
    • Choose high-quality educational games that align with your child’s developmental stage and learning goals. Platforms like Common Sense Media provide reviews and recommendations. Common Sense Media
  4. Engage in Co-Play:
    • Actively participate in your child’s screen time by co-playing educational games. This involvement enhances the learning experience and fosters connection.
  5. Create a Consistent Schedule:
    • Establish a routine for screen time, creating predictability and helping children understand when it’s time for educational activities.
  6. Monitor Online Interactions:
    • For games with online components, closely monitor your child’s interactions to ensure a safe and positive online environment.
  7. Encourage Breaks:
    • Incorporate breaks during screen time to reduce eye strain and promote physical activity. Follow the 20-20-20 rule, looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
  8. Use Parental Controls:
    • Implement parental controls on devices and within games to manage content, screen time, and in-app purchases.
  9. Educate on Responsible Technology Use:
    • Teach your child about responsible technology use, including the importance of privacy, online etiquette, and cyber safety.
  10. Stay Informed on Updates:
    • Regularly check for updates and modifications to games and apps, ensuring that they align with your family’s values and safety standards.

Disclaimer

The guidelines provided are general recommendations and may need adjustment based on individual circumstances and evolving research. Always consult with healthcare professionals and trusted educational sources for personalized advice.

Video

Screen Time Rules for Kids

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