STILLWATER — Whether doing their homework on the computer,
playing a video game or watching television, children are
spending more time in front of a screen than ever before.
However, moderating kids’ screen time can have positive effects
on their physical, mental and emotional well-being. It is
estimated that kids spend an average of four to six hours
sitting and viewing some type of screen. Watching television can
be educational — preschoolers can learn the alphabet and older
kids can keep up with current events or watch historical
documentaries. But, hours of unrestricted screen time can
translate into long periods of physical inactivity, less time
spent interacting with others and increased exposure to
advertising for high calorie, less nutritious foods. Since
language skills are developed through reading and conversation,
extended daily screen time can affect children’s ability to
learn how to positively interact with others. Research also
indicates that kids who watch less television do better on
standa