This year, the COVID-19 pandemic has kept a lot of our kids home for extended periods of time. No doubt boredom has been an issue and many parents do not want their kids to spend too long playing video games, on their phones or watching television.

There are good reasons to avoid too much screen time with children. Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Louisville explores healthier ways to keep your kids entertained.

Why Is Too Much Screen Time Bad for My Child?

The National Institute of Health (NIH) conducted a study that shows that children who spent two or more hours a day on screens scored lower on language and thinking tests. Furthermore, children who spent seven hours on screens experienced a thinning of the brain’s cortex, which is the area of the brain related to reasoning and critical thinking.

Screen time may be the quickest solution for bored children, but the repercussions are simply not worth it. Too much screen time doesn’t only affect the brain, and we’ve listed a few more reasons to set limits below.

More Reasons to Limit Screen Time

• Screen time may inhibit a child’s ability to communicate and interact socially.
• Screens can thwart regular sleeping patterns.
• Screens can be addictive and therefore lead to distraction and behavioral issues.

What Are Some Creative Alternatives to Screen Time?

When parents are busy, it can be easier to just turn on a movie or allow endless hours of gaming, but there are some creative solutions to screen time.

It may take a little extra preparation and planning, but the reward of a healthier child will be worth it. Consider the below options of screen-free fun!

Ways to Stay Entertained Without Screens

• Have board games and puzzles available.
• Schedule a craft time in the day. This could be as simple as having coloring books or play-doh.
• Get age-appropriate reading materials. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a resource that sends FREE books monthly to children ages 0–5. All you have to do is sign up online.
• Create a scavenger hunt.
• Make chores fun by doing a race against the clock or a reward for completing extra tasks.

Our team at AFC Urgent Care Louisville is here to offer solutions to support the health of your family. Walk in today with your health concerns.