How many hours a day do you stare at a screen? That’s the basic screen time definition — the amount of time you spend looking at a smartphone, laptop, computer, tablet, or TV. 

Understanding how much screen time is the right amount for children is sometimes hard to define or navigate. Undoubtedly, too much screen time can be bad. 

Kids having screen time and interacting with the internet and apps is unavoidable. As a parent, there are ways in which you can take some control over your children's internet and screen time interactions, like blocking access to unsuitable websites, installing screen time settings, or managing and limiting access to a child’s device and applications. Also, adding antivirus software to family devices can keep your mind at ease and be the last layer of protection when it is time to be interacting with screens. 

One thing is for sure, too much screen time means not enough active playtime. The key parents need to crack here is how to limit, not eliminate, screen time, while establishing parental controls that act as your integral partner in internet safety. 

Here are a few tips to help keep your kids safe online and help them get offline when needed. 

• Set a good example

“Do as I say, not as I do” only works sometimes. Help your kids out by being a good leader in how you interact with your own phone and devices. So put your phone down and be present with them.

• Create space for screen-free time

Even passive screen time, like having the TV run in the background, counts. Put devices out of sight, so they can be out of mind — and be sure to buy your child a phone only when the time is right.

• Monitor screen time activity

Sometimes the honour system works, sometimes it doesn’t. By monitoring your kids online and setting limits with a parental app, you’ll know exactly when it is time to call it quits for the day.

• No screens 90 minutes before bedtime

This holds true even for adults. Pre-sleep screen time directly impacts a child’s ability to sleep well. Create a few scenarios where screen time is simply not an option, such as during school, at night, or during meals.

• Develop a rewards-based system

A screen time trends chart that tracks good behaviour can help determine if screen time has been earned through healthy behaviour, or if more chores, homework, or time outside is needed.

• Focus on active, not passive, media

Seek out interactive screen time situations that let your child interact with the screen (touch screen, age-appropriate learning games or video calls). Sedentary screen time tends to last longer, so avoid this type as often as possible.

• Stick with it

Create habits that are easy to remember, sustainable, and that the whole family can live by. Keeping your family safe online is a team effort, after all.

• Make sure you are protected

The internet offers an unlimited range of online experiences, and while much of the online world is safe, not all the content out there is appropriate for everyone in your family. When your kids are online, it can take only one or two inadvertent clicks for them to end up on inappropriate or unsafe content so make sure you have comprehensive digital security like Avast One.