Screen Time | Print |  E-mail

On May 7, our Professional Development Program Manager Coco McAtee appeared on Fox 4's morning news show to discuss the pros and cons of children interacting with a TV or computer. Click here to visit Fox 4 News.

How much of the time your child spends in front of a screen such as a TV, computer or video games is really healthy? Find out the pros and cons of children interacting with technology, along with tips for healthy viewing.

Why monitor your child's screen time?

  • Your child's brain is still under construction
  • Children cannot always interpret what they're seeing, or understand the context
  • Ratings may not fit your family values
  • Most kids spend too much time in front of a screen
  • Children's brains develop by spending time with people, not in front of screens

Tips for healthy viewing

  • Know what your kids are watching, inventory games
  • Put computer in a common space, not bedroom
  • Limit the amount of time on screen
  • Watch games or shows with your child
  • Ask for your child's interpretation and giving any needed context
Archive of Parenting Tips
Last Updated ( Tuesday, 10 July 2007 )