The science is clear: Too much screen time can lead to kids experiencing developmental delays, poor sleep, attention issues and weight gain. And yet, kids love those small glowing devices. To keep your children healthy, you need to find a way to set limits. But how can you create rules around their favorite pastimes without causing a lot of drama? Create realistic rules. You know your family best. Review the American Academy of Pediatrics’ best practices for screen time online, and then consider what’s both healthy and doable. Try maiking small changes. Determine usage limits and establish device- free times. Then create clear expectations and consequences, and don’t back down from enforcing them. Take the devices away. Create “no screen time” time. If needed, set a timer when the device shuts off on its own. It is not a punishment, though it might feel like one to your kids at first. But it’s actually helping them by removing the temptation. Your elementary school child will be less likely to get sucked into a YouTube hole, and your teen won’t send “just one” text at dinner if the device isn’t right there. Keep these devices out of sight during no-use time, and put Breaking the Habit HOW TO CUT YOUR KIDS’ SCREEN TIME
them away once your kids have met their daily limits. In the end, it will make things easier.
Spend more time together. Giving your children your undivided attention is incredibly valuable, even if it’s only for short periods. Brainstorm ideas of what your child(ren) want to do together. Figure out how you can create more face time (not FaceTime). Start conversations and play games to spend time together as a family. Even better, get outside! If you’re willing to spend time with them and act a little silly, your kids will have more fun kicking a ball around rather than playing Roblox. Better yet, you’ll both get some exercise. Finally, consider the example you’re setting. It’s hard to blame kids for their screen addiction when adults also have trouble prying themselves away from laptops, tablets, and phones. Think about how you can reduce your own screen time and consider installing an app that tracks your usage like StayFree or Social Fever. You might be surprised at how much time you spend staring at a little screen — and be inspired to cut back.
... CONTINUED FROM COVER
Signs of Sleep Disordered Breathing
Interested in Learning More?
Most children with breathing issues have some of the following symptoms:
Here are some additional resources:
Books: • “Sleep Interrupted” by Dr. Steven Park • “Sleep Wrecked Kids” by Sharon Moore • “Breathe, Sleep, Thrive” by Shereen Lim • “Breathe” by James Nestor
• ADHD • Asthma • Upper respiratory infections • Ear infections • Ear tubes • Bed wetting • Nightmares/night terrors • Poor academic performance • Hyperactivity • Aggressive behavior • Clenching/grinding teeth • Restlessness
• Waking often during sleep • Small/delayed growth • Anxiety/depression • Daytime sleepiness • Overweight/obesity • Night sweats • Gl distress/reflux • Emotional instability • Sensory issues • Snoring • Mouth breathing (lips apart at rest) • Chapped lips • Under-eye bags
YouTube videos: • “Dr. Karen Bonuck on Sleep Disordered Breathing”
• “Finding Connor Deegan” • “The Story of Headgear”
Podcasts: • “Better Sleep, Better Breathing, Better Living” by Steven Parko • “Airway Circle Radio” by Renata Nehme • “Childrens Airway First” by CAFF
Conclusion: Lack of nasal oxygen can cause various issues. Many children are not breathing well and/or efficiently, causing them to struggle throughout their day, the body compensates and shows signs. This may not appear obvious to the untrained eye. By detecting the signs of poor breathing in a child early, we can help kids breathe better and positively guide their growth and development so they can achieve their optimal potential.
2 | WrigleyvilleDental.com
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator