Is screen time always harmful?

We live in a world where technology is ubiquitous. Our children grow up surrounded by screens, from phones and tablets to computers and televisions. As parents, it's natural to wonder if this is beneficial or harmful to their development. At Tutorina, we believe the answer isn't black and white. Screen time can be a double-edged sword, with the potential for both benefits and risks. The key is balance and conscious use of technology.

Let's explore this topic together and see how we can make screen time a positive and constructive experience for our children.

Myth #1: All Screen Time Is the Same

It's essential to understand that not all screen time is created equal. There's a significant difference between passive screen time, such as watching cartoons for hours on end, and active screen time, which involves interaction, creativity, and learning.

Passive screen time refers to activities like watching videos, aimlessly browsing social media, or playing games that don't stimulate critical thinking. This type of activity can lead to:

• Reduced attention and focus: Children accustomed to the constant stimulation of screens may have difficulty concentrating on tasks that require sustained mental effort.
• Sleep problems: The blue light emitted from screens can disrupt the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating the sleep-wake cycle.
• Sedentary lifestyle and health problems: Excessive screen time can contribute to obesity, vision problems, and other conditions.

Active screen time, on the other hand, refers to activities that stimulate the brain and involve the child's active participation. Examples of active activities include:

• Educational games: There are a multitude of apps and games that help children learn math, science, foreign languages, or develop their problem-solving skills.
• Digital creation: Digital drawing, animation, photo/video editing, and programming are just a few examples of activities that stimulate creativity and imagination.
• Communication and collaboration: Online platforms can facilitate communication with family and friends, and online school projects teach children to work as a team.

Tutorina helps you encourage active time by offering a variety of educational and interactive activities, adapted to your child's age and interests.

Myth #2: Age Doesn't Matter

A child's age is a crucial factor in setting limits and the type of activities allowed. Children's brains are constantly developing, and excessive exposure to screens at an early age can have negative long-term consequences.

Here are some general recommendations:

• Under 18 months: Avoid screen exposure as much as possible. Direct interaction, play, and sensory exploration are essential for the harmonious development of babies.
• 18 months - 2 years: If you introduce screen time, limit it to quality, interactive activities, and supervise the child at all times.
• 3 - 5 years: Establish a balance between active and passive time, with an emphasis on educational content and creative activities. Limit passive time to a maximum of one hour per day.
• 6 - 12 years: You can gradually introduce more activities adapted to the child's age and interests, but monitor screen time and make sure it doesn't interfere with sleep, physical activity, and social interaction.
• Teenagers: Give them more autonomy, but encourage them to maintain a balance between online and offline activities. Communicate openly about the importance of responsible technology use.

Tutorina allows you to customize time limits and the type of activities according to your child's age, giving you the flexibility to adjust settings as they grow.

Myth #3: Screen Time Always Harms Physical Health

It is true that a sedentary lifestyle associated with excessive screen time can contribute to health problems such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular problems, and sleep disorders.

However, technology can also be a health ally!

• Fitness apps or interactive games: There are numerous apps that encourage movement and physical activity, turning exercise into a fun game.
• Health information: The Internet offers access to a wealth of information about nutrition, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle.

Tutorina helps you integrate offline activities into your child's routine, encouraging movement, outdoor play, and other activities that promote physical and mental health.

Myth #4: Screen Time Always Affects the Development of Social Skills

While it's important not to replace human interaction with virtual interaction, technology can be a valuable tool for developing social skills.

• Communication with loved ones: Video conferencing platforms allow children to stay in touch with family and friends who are far away.
• Online socialization: Social networks and online forums can be a socializing space for children with common interests, helping them make friends and develop their communication skills.
• Online games: Multiplayer games teach children to cooperate, communicate effectively, and develop team spirit.

Tutorina promotes positive social interaction and helps you set healthy boundaries so that technology complements, not replaces, human relationships.

Myth #5: The Only Way to Manage Screen Time Is by Imposing Strict Limits

While limits are important, an authoritarian approach can lead to conflict and resistance from the child. Open communication, negotiation, and involving the child in setting the rules are essential for effective screen time management.

Tutorina facilitates dialogue between parent and child, allowing you to set limits and goals together, negotiate screen time, and monitor online activity.