Technology has always been both a blessing and a curse. Throughout history, as innovation has grown, we have come to rely more and more on machines. Technology often saves us time and money and can help promote connection and conversation.
All things in life have an upside and a downside. In today’s modern world, where we can access almost anyone or anything with just the press of a button, we’re more aware of the dangers of overusing screens and devices.
Taking a break from the apps, and the streaming services, though, can be easier said than done. Today’s tech companies are smarter than ever. Their programs are designed to reel us in and keep us scrolling. It’s not enough to keep the adults engaged, though. These days, more and more companies are looking for ways to keep kids of all ages scrolling.
If you are anything like us, you’ve probably wondered how your life could change if you and your family started to minimize your screen time. Finding – and maintaining – the motivation can be difficult, though. For parents, screens are sometimes a lifesaver when you are trying to manage kids, work, and run a household simultaneously.
As we get closer to summertime, with kids looking for ways to fill their free time, you might feel some anxiety at the thought of dealing with all that screen time. Well, take a deep breath, Mama! Your friends at The Cool Mom Co. are breaking down all the benefits of a life with minimal screens in the hope that it will give you the inspiration to trust your gut and try a new normal.
Improve Focus
We hear it time and time again these days.
“I used to be a voracious reader, but I just can’t focus on books these days.”
“Every time I sit down to watch a movie with my spouse, they don’t even pay any attention! They are just scrolling on their phone!”
“I want to get more done during the day, but I find myself checking my email every few minutes.”
If any of this resonates with you, you are not alone. It is also not your fault.
In our current screen-obsessed culture, our brains are being asked to do the impossible; constantly multitask.
Multitasking has been shown to be an ineffective way to get tasks done. Rather than getting two things done at once (for example, work and checking social media), your brain is constantly jumping between two subjects and losing its ability to focus on either one.
Researchers at MIT have named this phenomenon “switch cost.” The theory is that when you take a break from your task to check your phone, your brain struggles to go back to the original task. It can take anywhere between 15 to 25 minutes to regain focus.
This doesn’t just affect adults. Children have a hard time finishing homework or chores when they are repeatedly checking their devices. Even once completed, the work is rarely as good as it could have been, having they been focusing on one task at a time.
The good news? This lack of focus is not permanent. Many people find that by reducing their screentime, they notice improved focus almost immediately. As a parent, reducing screentime can lead to kids who are more naturally drawn to independent play and do not need frequent ideas or intervention to keep them interested.
Physical Benefits
The average adult spends eight hours a day in front of a screen. Children can spend 4-6 hours a day on screens. And teenagers? A whopping nine hours.
All of this can take a huge toll on our physical bodies. That much sitting is obviously troubling, but other smaller problems can also occur over time.
Many people suffer from poor posture due to staring at a screen all day. This can lead to back and neck pain. Another concern is the amount of eye strain that occurs from that much screen time. That eye strain can cause headaches, dry eyes, and sometimes nearsightedness.
Reducing screen time frees up time to move and get outside. This can lead to better overall health and fitness and decrease the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Encourage your fam to start their day off on the right foot by going outside for a family walk. Alternatively, look for physical activities everyone can enjoy, such as swimming or a group dance party.
Better Sleep
We’ve long known that the blue light emitted by phones, computers, and other devices has serious consequences on our circadian rhythm. The constant exposure to artificial light sources disrupts our body’s natural cues, telling us it is time to sleep.
Most scientists recommend that we avoid screens altogether for 2-3 hours before bedtime for optimal sleep. If your family is used to snuggling up with a Netflix show after dinner, try switching it up. Quiet, screen-free activities like a bonfire in the backyard, listening to music, or reading aloud can be great alternatives. Ultimately, your home environment will be more peaceful and harmonious when everyone has a good night’s sleep.
Better Mental Health
Life online offers a distorted view of the world. Not only are we constantly comparing ourselves to the influencers and celebrities on social media, but we are also constantly bombarded with news stories and opinions. It’s no wonder more, and more of us are struggling with increased anxiety.
Our brains aren’t wired to take in this influx of information. It also has serious effects on our kids, with more and more research suggesting social media contributes to anxiety and depression in young people.
Limiting your and your family’s time online can help you feel more mentally balanced and confident.
Fosters Better Relationships
It is so easy to fall into the trap of connecting with friends via quick text messages and Snapchats. Constant social media updates can allow us to feel like we are up to date on our friends’ lives without ever having conversations with them.
Making a conscious choice to spend quality, in-person time with friends and family can help decrease feelings of loneliness and offer valuable emotional support.
Making and maintaining friendships is a skill, and modeling that for our children can be an important way to ensure they have healthy, long-lasting relationships.
All this being said, keep in mind that nobody is perfect. We are all fighting against the powerful, addictive algorithms that are designed to keep us tuned in. You don’t need to change your life completely or ban screens. Little changes every day can help us all live healthier, more balanced lives both on and offline.
How is your family planning to handle the topic of screen time this summer? Share with us in the comments below.