Balancing screen time and other activities for children

[Ashwalker5]

Hi,

My name's Ash, I'm a father of three; eldest is 11 and we've twins about to turn 7 - all boys.

I'm currently doing a design project with the Open University that also links in with our situation at home. Basically, I'm working on a project based on the following question: ‘How to fairly manage children’s time on electrical gadgets in a way they will engage with’ .

I could really do with getting some insight on what other parents do, both to help with this and give us some pointers at home.

It would be hugely appreciated if anyone could give their take on the following questions.

1.) How well do you feel you manage screen time (on tablets, computers, consoles, phones etc.) in your household?

2.) How do you go about trying to keep a balance between this and other activities?

3.) How much is too much screen time?

4.) What household items (any kind of products have you used to help with this)?

5.) When is is most difficult to manage (and keep tabs on) screen time?

Just to show willing, thought I'd better offer up some answers :-)

1.) How well do you feel you manage screen time (on tablets, computers, consoles, phones etc.) in your household?

It varies, after school it varies from 1-2 hours on an evening.

2.) How do you go about trying to keep a balance between this and other activities?

Usually by getting crayons out or opening the back door if it's sunny. It can be tricky when we're busy as the kids often need pushing to do other things.

3.) How much is too much screen time?

For us, probably more than 2 hours in one go. Definitely when they start losing interest in other things.

4.) What household items (any kind of products have you used to help with this)?

We use the timer on the Google Home speaker; which the kids have started to use themselves when it's their turn. This helps now we know they can use it and we can trust them to say the right time. We use parental controls for content on tablets.

5.) When is it most difficult to manage (and keep tabs on) screen time?

Whenever we're busy around the house or not feeling so good - it can be a real challenge when we're feeling sick and not up to directing activities etc.