06
Grassroots with passion
SPOT LIGHT
• Watch with your child. Whenever possible, catch some programs together – and talk about what you see, such as family values, violence or drug abuse. If you see a junk food ad, explain that just because it’s on TV doesn’t mean it’s good for you. • Record programs and watch them later. This will allow you to fast-forward through commercials selling toys, junk food and other products. When watching live programs, use the mute button during commercials. • Encourage active screen time. Have your child stretch or do yoga while watching a show. Challenge your family to see who can do the most jumping jacks during a commercial break. Choose video games that encourage physical activity. It can be difficult to start limiting your child’s screen time. However, it’s worth the effort. By creating new household rules and steadily making small changes in your child’s routine, you can curb screen time and its potential effects.
importance of sitting less and moving more. Also, explain screen time rules – and the consequences of breaking them.
And here are simple steps to reduce screen time:
• Eliminate background TV. If the TV is turned on – even if it’s just in the background – it’s likely to draw your child’s attention. If you’re not actively watching a show, turn it off. • Keep TVs and computers out of the bedroom. Children who have TVs in their bedrooms watch more TV than children who don’t have TVs in their bedrooms. • Monitor your child’s screen time and the websites he or she is visiting by keeping TVs and computers in a common area in your house. • Don’t eat in front of the TV. Allowing your child to eat or snack in front of the TV increases his or her screen time. The habit also encourages mindless munching, which can lead to weight gain. When your child has screen time, make it as engaging as possible: • Plan what your child views. Instead of flipping through channels, seek quality videos or programming. Consider using parental control settings on your TV and computers. Preview video games and smartphone applications before allowing your child to play with them.
C. Joshi. PB.PBS.CMSAC Consultant Counsellor
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