We constantly hear advice about limiting screen time for our children. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) currently recommends a limit of one hour of screen time per day for kids ages 2-5 (that’s only two episodes of Daniel Tiger). For some families, this isn’t a problem,. for others, like mine, we try to find a balance. I am very aware of how much time my daughter is spending watching TV or using an iPad. Recently, though, I realized something: I was not so aware of how much screen time I am getting.
The iPhone introduced a new feature last year called Screen Time. It shows you how much time you were on your phone and what apps you were using the most. This was a big eye-opener for me and made me want to turn my phone on airplane mode forever. Luckily, the feature also allows you to set daily limits on apps. Apparently, I need to limit my time on one app in particular: Instagram. It allows me to feel connected to other moms, inspires me, and of course, entertains me. However, I spend way too much time watching stories. On the worst days, I spend up to two hours, according to Screen Time. Yikes!
While these devices offer us a lot of convenience and connection, our phones can distract us from real life. They give people constant access to us, and while that has its advantages, feeling like I need to read and reply to a message immediately weighs on me. Anyone and everyone can interrupt my day, throwing a wrench in my productivity, and even halting quality time with my kid. Think about it: Do you ignore text messages until nap time?
Before I was a mom, I would occasionally turn my phone on airplane mode. No one calls or texts came through, and it felt freeing. I can’t turn my phone on airplane mode most of the time now because I need to be reachable in an emergency. What I can do instead is turn my phone on Do Not Disturb (which still allows certain phone calls to get through). I can also turn off all notifications for social media and even email. I don’t want a random Facebook comment to interrupt my day. Once my family is under one roof, I can finally turn on airplane mode. I love doing this instead of turning my phone off so I can still take photos and video to capture those fleeting toddler moments!
The best thing I can do is put the temptation away. I leave the phone on the charger, and while we’re out and about, I can leave it in my bag.
Ever since I’ve put this plan into action, I’ve seen a big change in our days. I am more productive. My time with my daughter feels more connected. I am less distracted. The messages and notifications are all still there during nap time.
How do you limit your own screen time?
So true! Since Apple started sending me alerts every week about my screen time, it has definitely helped keep me accountable.
This info is a helpful reminder for everyone! I liked your statement “the best thing I can do is put the temptation away,” and plan to put this into action!