Cutting Screen Time

When it's time to turn off the TV, the computer or the video game, you'd better be prepared for the inevitable question - why? Today's kids spend 38-45 hours a week channel surfing, Web surfing or locked in on Nintendo DS, Xbox, PS3 or Wii. Naturally, they'll want to know your reasons for setting TV limits, and "because I said so" simply won't suffice.

Why, then, is it important to limit the amount of time your child spends plugged in electronically? For one thing, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends limiting exposure to TV, Internet and video games to a maximum of two hours per day for kids age 2-18. For infants and toddlers younger than 2, the AAP recommends no TV at all.

Yet, a kid isn't likely to buy into your argument for setting TV limits merely based on an anonymous panel's recommendation. He or she probably won't care that the Surgeon General says 17 percent of kids age 2-19 are overweight, and that extended periods in front of a TV or computer monitor contribute to childhood obesity. It's also hard to make the long-view argument that developing healthy habits now will help your child lead a well-balanced life later.

In fact, a kid whose TV or video game time has run out for the day probably won't accept anything less than a better offer. Fortunately, alternatives abound. When setting video game and TV limits for your kids, here are a few ways to respond to the inevitable "why?" question:

• It's time for arts and crafts

• It's time for a family walk

• It's time to read a book

• It's time to play with your other toys

• It's time to show mom or dad what you learned in school today

The Mikko Que can help make your argument for you by conveniently and electronically setting video game, Internet and TV limits based on settings you decide. This revolutionary device gives the parent control of the amount of time a child spends in front of the TV, on the Internet or playing video games. It also allows a parent to choose what time of day a particular device is available, and this can be a valuable tool for gradually weaning a child away from overexposure to electronic entertainment. To learn more about how the Mikko Que can help in setting TV limits, contact us today.

Media Management for Children ... It's time.