While many younger people may have become accustomed to hours of staring at a screen, now is when it ... [+]
Even as states have loosened restrictions and people have started to get back "out into the world," screen time including the use of social media, has continued to rise among children and teens. While much of this has resulted from the novel coronavirus pandemic, which has forced young people into isolation, there are still calls for parents to balance screen time due to its impact on kids' mental health and general well being.
One of the concerns isn't just more screen time, but how much more.
According to recent findings from a survey conducted by HighSpeedInternet.com, 57% of surveyed Americans said their screen time has increased by one hour or more since going into isolation. The study also found that 30% of surveyed Americans said they spend most of their time streaming TV shows or movies while in isolation, while 70% of surveyed Americans say they have downloaded a new app to stay entertained while in quarantine, including games and entertainment.
The Benefits of Screen Time
With families stuck at home and schools closed, it hasn't all been "bad screen" time however.
"While many professionals suggest that screen time is bad for children, it can in fact have many positive benefits," said autism expert Jessica Leichtweisz, CEO of Hope Education Services. "For example, young children often learn their letters, numbers, colors and shapes from watching Youtube videos.
Other benefits have included providing a place for the youth to connect with others, and also in the way that it could open new interests, but other experts have countered that it is still necessary to be discerning when it comes to screen time.
In other words, hours spent watch education videos on YouTube is one thing, while posting on SnapChat might not offer the same benefits.
A Balance Of Time
Ensuring that screen time is time well spent is what experts suggest, especially as the country does open up and return to some sense of normality. While many younger people may have become accustomed to hours of staring at a screen, now is when it should be good time vs. just killing time.
Educational screen time should also be encouraged for this reason.
"It is paramount to be cognizant that technology is a tool which can positively enhance learning outcomes and understandings, but technology for technology's sake can be detrimental and actually detract from learning," said Dr. Jennifer Walsh-Rurak, Ed.D, vice president of Fusion Education Group.
"When contemplating a lesson or activity, even in these days of online teaching, it is critical for teachers to consider if the learning can be enhanced by using online tools, or if it would serve the student more powerfully to log off and engage in non-screen time," Walsh-Rurak explained. "Instructional tasks such as interviewing a family member, utilizing household items to conduct an experiment, reading a book or engaging in exercise can provide positive learning outcomes and much needed breaks from screen time."
Use The Screen As One Resource
Just as the television can be a source of information or just as easily entertainment distractions, mobile devices, tablets and computers are the same. If the screen time is about learning or expanding, then it probably is a good thing.
However, experts have warned that a reliance on the screen as the source for information can have its own problems.
"Access to a robust library of resources, online services and apps can enhance the online learning experience, but too many virtual learning tools can also become overwhelming for students, and ultimately detract from the educational experience," said Walsh-Rurak.
Too often today it is easy to hear from kids – and to put it bluntly from way too many adults – "I read it on the Internet." That shouldn't be seen as valid research. As Waslh-Rurak noted, a virtual library of information from web sites is good, but this should enhance the actual library experience whether the source is on printed on paper or displayed on screen.
But at the same time, the screen can't be the teacher. Even in the era of remote learning, students of all ages need to have some semblance of interaction with others.
"Our computer screens can be lifelines in terms of connectedness during these otherwise isolating days," warned Walsh-Rurak. "Providing ample time to connect with peers online to socialize, play games and share experiences can make these untenable times less insulating and promote a shared sense of community."
As the weather warms and people can start to get outdoors – even while maintaining social distancing – it is advisable to put down the screens.
"It is important to remember that too much of anything, even things that serve us in positive ways such as exercise, can take a toll," added Walsh-Rurak. "Teachers and parents must be mindful of how much time collectively is being spent in front of a screen."
