Technology makes our lives easier and more entertaining on a daily basis, but we are all aware of the potential for overconsumption. This risk is most concerning for children, particularly those with ADHD.
Key Facts
Here are some numbers from the American Academy of Pediatrics to be aware of:
- 6-10 year olds spend almost eight hours per day using media
- Children older than ten years old spend over eleven hours per day on media
- 71% of children have either a television or Internet connected device in their bedroom
These numbers are compounded by easy access and increasing implementation of technology in school. Even more importantly, two-thirds of children and teens report their parents do not have any rules regarding media use.
ADHD and Screen Time
Children with ADHD are more prone to this excessive media use. While children diagnosed with ADHD struggle to pay attention during homework, they generally have no trouble playing video games for hours on end. Video games provide instant feedback paired with a stream of exciting visual and auditory content. This combination perfectly fits a child with ADHD’s need for immediate and frequent rewards.
Effects
It is estimated that up to 25% of children with ADHD demonstrate signs of Internet addiction. This overuse can contribute to social, academic, and health problems. Further, the blue light emitted from media devices impairs sleep onset. In addition to these concerns, constant technological access has been linked to reduced problem solving and creativity. Why imagine a make believe world when it can be created in a video game.
What to Do
Most children are able to balance technology use with other aspects of their life, but what can you do to ensure technology use does not become a problem for your child? The American Academy of Pediatrics offers the following recommendations:
- First, if your child is under two years old, they should not be using technology at all.
- Beyond two years old, limit media use to one or two hours per day. Naturally, this is an ambitious goal with respect to the above numbers, so consider it something to strive towards.
- Do not put a television or Internet connected device in your child’s room.
- Establish media rules, such as curfews and off limit times (e.g., meals).
- Take time to engage in media use with your children to discuss what they are viewing.
- Model positive media use for your children by restricting your own technology use.
If all else fails, there are a number of apps available that can play the role of bad guy for you!
Reference:
American Academy of Pediatrics. (2013). Policy statement: Children, adolescents, and the media. Pediatrics, 132(5)