I think we all can agree that technology has been amazing these past couple of months. But with everything happening online these days – from school to dance classes to library book downloads – kids are spending more time than ever looking at screens.
This post is sponsored by Bellevue Christian School.
While the time they’re spending is certainly productive and educational, it’s not without risks. Just as adults can suffer from digital eye strain, kids can be affected, too. There’s even evidence that it may contribute to nearsightedness in children. Some symptoms of digital eye strain include:
- headache
- fatigue
- dry eyes
- blurred vision
- light sensitivity
- sore or itchy eyes
In addition to eye strain, kids can experience sore necks or shoulders from poor posture, and difficulty sleeping from increased blue light exposure. All this to say – though we don’t have to be as concerned about “screen time” for the reasons we’ve always been aware of, we do need to make sure our kids are taking care of their eyes, minds, and bodies in new ways during this unique season.
Here are some tips.
The 20-20-20 Rule
Eye care professionals frequently proclaim the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It might be difficult to remember this every 20 minutes, but at various intervals throughout the day encourage your child to concentrate on something across the room.
Take Movement Breaks
Movement breaks are important for your child’s musculoskeletal health, but you’ll need to take these based on your child’s personality. Some kids’ minds might need a physical movement break along with every 20-20-20 vision break. Other kids are near impossible to rein back in after breaking their concentration, so breaks during dedicated academic time may be distracting. Though there’s no one-size-fits-all recommendation for breaks, just make sure you’re taking them. Your kids need to move their bodies in many different ways throughout the day. Aim for a minimum of one hour of physical activity a day – but more is even better if they’re loving it!
Limit Evening Screen Time
One of the greatest benefits of this distance learning environment is that learning can happen when it works for your child. There’s no need to follow a traditional school day, and the flexibility is great. However, blue light is known to impact sleep quality and it’s best to avoid screen exposure in the two hours prior to bedtime.
Print When Possible
If you have a choice between printing an assignment and completing it online, print it to let your child complete it the old fashioned way. It might be less convenient but it’s a small way to limit screen exposure.
Use Devices in Public Places
Just as distractions tempt you on your own computer, the pull to engage in non-academic activities on their devices is strong for your kids. You don’t have to look over their shoulder 24/7, but have them work on their devices in public places so you can see if they’re sneaking videos on YouTube or spending excessive time on the optional learning games recommended by their teacher. Limiting the extras will limit their overall daily screen exposure and reduce their risk of harm.
Exchange Books with Friends
Everyone wants their kids to read, and with libraries closed e-books reign supreme. To reduce exposure to screens, see if your friends have hard-copy books your kids can borrow instead of downloading them for an e-reader.
Make Phone Calls
Video conferencing is amazing, but remember the traditional phone call? Use this time to teach your child phone etiquette, and help them connect with family and friends through occasional voice-only connection instead of video chats or texting.
Screen time is unavoidable during this time, and the benefits of technology are absolutely amazing. Though parents shouldn’t be overly stressed about time spent in front of a screen, it is important to be mindful. Use these techniques to reduce your child’s exposure and keep your child’s mind and body healthy during these months of distance learning.
At Bellevue Christian School, we’re proud of the innovation that’s happening and the high-quality education we’re providing in the midst of an unprecedented social and educational climate. We invite you to call the Admissions Office today at (425) 460-3300, apply online at bellevuechristian.org or email BCS at admissions@bellevuechristian.org. We are happy to setup a tour or tell you more about our special programs, Athletics, Arts and Academics. Bellevue Christian is excited to work alongside you to prepare your child to live faithfully for God.
