Entre Madres y Doctoras: Screen Time for Children

• Entre Madres y Doctoras discusses the controversial topic of screen time for children.
• It’s an ongoing debate, as sometimes we use these devices to entertain our kids.
• However, many argue that it’s neither healthy nor good for children to use devices in their early years.

Having a child is truly beautiful, but also, though some try to hide it, terrifying. We always seem to be asking ourselves if we’re doing a good job.

Regarding anything, we start thinking, «Can they eat that?» «Is it okay to go out with the child now?» «Am I dressing them warmly enough?» «Is that headache normal?» «Should I give them a tablet?»

The last one is particularly debatable, as more than one parent has given a tablet to a child for entertainment…okay…even to calm them down. But is this okay?

To help us with this question, Dr. Edith Bracho-Sanchez and Evelyn Bracho-Sanchez have decided to talk about the topic. Here are some tips regarding screen time for children.

Limit screen time to no more than one hour a day

The Bracho-Sanchez doctors emphasize the importance of setting limits on the amount of time children spend in front of screens.

Despite the demands of everyday life, they try to ensure their children do not exceed one hour of screen time a day.

This limit is backed by research suggesting that excessive screen time can have negative effects on children’s development.

So, it’s about setting rules and sticking to them as much as possible.

Avoid giving screens during tantrums or tense moments

They recognize that it’s tempting to turn to screens when children are having a tantrum or are in a state of tension.

However, they stress that giving screens in moments of stress or anger can create a negative association and does not help children learn to manage their emotions in a healthy way.

It’s worth mentioning not to use screens as a tool to calm children.

The Bracho-Sanchez doctors mention that they have sometimes used screens as a way to keep their children busy while they perform tasks like cooking, bathing, or using the bathroom.

Try not to use screens to calm your children

However, they try to do this only in exceptional situations and seek other strategies to keep their children entertained or safe.

Don’t always resort to this to perform certain tasks, as it seems prudent and sensible to have other ways that don’t involve screens to calm children.

Encourage communication and interaction during meals without screens present

They recognize the importance of family meals as times for communication and connection.

Don’t use screens at mealtime

Therefore, they avoid the use of screens during meals and encourage other parents to do the same.

This allows children to focus on the meal and social interaction instead of being distracted by electronic devices.

It’s time for you to transform into a tool for your children with the next point.

Be aware of the example you set as a parent in the use of electronic devices.

Your use of devices

The Bracho-Sanchez doctors highlight that children learn by imitation and observation. Therefore, they urge parents to be aware of their own behavior regarding the use of electronic devices.

If parents show a balanced and moderate use of screens, it’s more likely that children will follow their example.

In summary, these rules and strategies that the Bracho-Sanchez doctors have implemented in their homes are based on research and their personal experience as mothers and health professionals.

Their approach is to find a balance between screen use and the well-being of their children, while recognizing that each family has its own circumstances and challenges.