There are many reasons why it is important to limit a child’s use of electronic devices. However, many parents aren’t sure how to go about limiting their child’s screen time – especially when it comes to video games. Parents should be aware of the risks involved when their child plays video games and set rules and restrictions for their safety. http://familyfirstpeds.com/

2.  Parents should be aware of the risks involved when
their child plays video games and set rules and
restrictions for their safety

4.  Video games increase the amount of
sedentary time in your child’s day that
can lead to mindlessly eating –
causing weight gain.

5.  Students who spend most of their free time
playing video games or viewing TV in their
bedroom tend to perform worse on tests
than those who don’t have TVs in their
bedrooms.

6.  Too much exposure to violence through
media — especially video games — can
desensitize children to violence. As a result,
children might learn to accept violent
behavior as a normal way to solve
problems.

7.  Too much screen time affects a child’s sleep
schedule and, in turn, can cause trouble
sleeping. Sleep loss can lead to fatigue,
increased snacking and weight gain.

8.  Students who spend most of their free time
playing video games or viewing TV in their
bedroom tend to perform worse on tests
than those who don’t have TVs in their
bedrooms.

9.  Too much exposure to violence through
media — especially video games — can
desensitize children to violence. As a result,
children might learn to accept violent
behavior as a normal way to solve
problems.

10.  Too much screen time affects a child’s
sleep schedule and, in turn, can cause
trouble sleeping. Sleep loss can lead to
fatigue, increased snacking and weight
gain.

12.  It’s important to emulate the behavior you
want to see from your kids. Therefore, set a
good example for your child by monitoring
your own electronic use. Your child will take
notice.

13.  It can be helpful to establish zones in your
house where you don’t allow technological
devices – such as TVs, laptops, or video
games. You might also want to designate
one day a week or month as a screen-free
day for the whole family.

14.  Encourage your child to become involved
with other activities and develop other
interests outside of video games. Rather
than relying on screen time for
entertainment, encourage participation in
sports, clubs, volunteer activities or even
music.

15.  Monitor your child’s screen time by keeping
TV’s and computers in a common area of
your house.