Parenting Insights
By Jamie Carter
Updated: Dec. 10, 2021
Originally Published: Dec. 10, 2021
In today’s world, the topic of screen time is frequently debated among parents. There’s the ever-present feeling of parental guilt, along with the potential for being judged by others. The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychology recommends that children aged 18 months to 5 years should ideally have no screen time, and if they do, it should be limited to just 1 hour of non-educational content per weekday. These recommendations, however, often feel unrealistic, especially in our busy lives.
Recent research from Michigan Medicine highlighted on ScienceDaily reveals that engaging with preschoolers while they watch TV can spark their curiosity, helping to counteract some of the downsides of screen time. Here’s why this interaction is important.
Conversations Spark Curiosity
According to the lead researcher, pediatrician Samira Patel, “Curiosity lays the groundwork for innovation, a love of learning, and positive developmental outcomes.” When kids are curious about what they see, they tend to explore topics more deeply, often leading them down exciting paths of inquiry.
Engaging your child in discussions about their favorite shows can inspire this curiosity. Patel emphasizes that “consistent dialogue between parents and children fosters numerous aspects of early development, including curiosity.” So, if your little one is watching “Peppa Pig” for the umpteenth time, ask them questions about the episode. Even if they don’t have all the answers, it encourages them to think critically.
Many beloved children’s shows present simple conflicts and problem-solving scenarios. While real-life challenges may not always have clear solutions, discussing these storylines helps children conceptualize and apply what they learn. A special nod to “Daniel Tiger” for teaching valuable lessons like “taking a deep breath before reacting.”
Curiosity Enhances Learning
Teachthought.com suggests various ways to nurture curiosity at home, even while watching TV. One effective method is to model curiosity yourself and allow your children to steer the discussion. When watching a show together, ask them about the motivations behind a character’s actions. This approach not only keeps the conversation flowing but also encourages your child to explore their thoughts and feelings about the content.
Of course, we understand that sometimes the reason for an impromptu TV session is simply to gain a moment of respite amidst the chaos of daily life. Whether you’re tidying up, preparing dinner, or tackling other responsibilities, it’s entirely reasonable to lean on screen time. Remember, not all parents have the luxury of sitting down to watch TV with their kids, and that’s perfectly okay. The takeaway is that screen time shouldn’t be viewed solely as a negative.
So, if you need to give your child a little extra TV time to maintain your sanity, don’t feel guilty. Later, perhaps at bedtime, take a moment to ask them about what they watched and what they learned. Keep the curiosity alive!
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Summary
Engaging with your children during TV time can foster curiosity and enhance their learning experiences. While screen time can often feel like a guilty pleasure for parents, it can also provide valuable opportunities for conversation and development. By discussing what they watch, you can help them think critically and apply what they learn, creating a positive impact on their growth.
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