By Beth Thomas, MSW, LSW, Youth First
Each time I visit my brother and his family, I feel a strong sense of peace and connection. This is amidst the presence of a toddler, newborn baby and a dog. Of course, I feel this way because of the strong relationship I have with my brother, sister-in-law, niece and nephew, but I believe another strong impact is in the fact that they do not use a TV. Specifically, they keep their one TV stored away, only bringing it out for minimal occasions. A regular day in their life does not consist of watching any TV, or even having a TV in sight. This led me into researching about electronic devices, to learn more about how technology influences our lives and to discover new facts on technology unknown to me.
You may be thinking how not watching TV affects the relationship of a family. It may be surprising to learn how much electronic devices, like TVs, phone and computer impact a family’s relationship, as well as each member of the family. I was shocked when reading some of the information on technology and electronic devices. Let me share what I discovered.
It is recommend, by experts, that children aged 2 years and older only be accessing screen time a maximum of one to two hours a day; this time is not including screen time needed to complete homework. It is recorded that children ages 8-12 years old are averaging a total time of four to six hours of screen time per day. For teenagers, it is common to spend approximately nine hours of screen time a day, and this too does not factor in the time students use electronic devices for homework and school work. Screen time includes numerous electronic devices, mainly including TVs, computers, phones, tablets and gaming systems. As for adults, it is also recommended not to exceed a daily screen time of two hours, not including the use of electronic devices at work or school.
Excessive screen time and use of electronic devices seizes the opportunity to spend time with family and those important to you in your life. Imagine all the time that would be available if electronic devices were not used as often and screen time was reduced. Not only would reducing screen time and electronic device usage have a positive impact on relationships, it also would have a positive impact on physical health. Utilizing electronic devices close to bedtime interferes with sleep cycles and makes it more difficult to fall asleep. It is recommended to avoid using electronic devices heavily right before going to sleep and right after waking up.
My brother and his family inspired me to put away the electronic devices more often and partake in activities that allow me to fully connect with myself and family. Some ways to partake in the extra time available when putting down the electronic devices includes going for a walk, playing a game, picking up a new hobby, getting chores done or simply sitting on the porch and having a conversation together.
Beth Thomas, MSW, LSW, serves as the Youth First Social Worker at St. Joseph School in Princeton and St. Bernard School in Rockport.