This summer I have been volunteering with the American Heart Association in New York City as the communications intern. Through this experience I learned a lot about the importance of exercising and maintaining good heart health. Today, more and more children are spending more time on devices and less time playing outside and staying active.
Technology has become such a big part of everyday life whether we like it or not. Although it has been extremely beneficial to society, it is also extremely addictive and over-used. Experts have recommended that children get only 1 to 2 hours of technological use a day. According to the American Heart Association, the average 8-year-old spends about eight hours a day using different forms of media, and teenagers typically ger more than 11 hours of media a day.
Spending too much time using technology can increase sedentary behavior which can lead to health problems, like heart disease, later in life. Kids today are not running around with their friends as much and instead are entranced by video games and social media sites. According to the American Heart Association it has also been found that increased usage of technology can lead to depression.
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I have noticed the increasing use of technology in my own home. My younger sister and her friends spend a lot of time staring down at their cell phones and tablets. Instead of talking to each other in the moment together, they sit silently scrolling through social media. It has become a norm for children of all ages to have some sort of technological device wherever they are.
It is extremely important to remind your family of the importance of exercising and staying active. Children need to learn that it is necessary to put their phones down. Here are some ways to limit your family’s screen time.
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1. Gardening
Gardening is a great way to bring your family together while being active! Transform your yard by planting flowers or grow your own food and plant some veggie seeds. Bond with your family, keep moving, and improve your home all at once!
2. Swimming
There is no room from technology in the water! Bring your family to the nearest beach, lake, pond or pool and make a splash. Bring alone pool toys to have fun and keep everyone moving!
3. Hiking
Go for a family hike through a park or a nearby walking trail. Put the phones away and become immersed in nature while getting in some exercise.
4. Packing a Picnic
Spend some extra time outdoors with your family and pack a picnic. Instead of spending your dinner sitting in front of a TV, spend it outdoors. Bring a frisbee or other outdoor games and have fun!
5. Setting a good example
If you want your children to spend less time looking at their screens, you should too. Put your phone or tablet down and spend quality time with your family.
https://www.heart.org/en/news/2019/06/03/with-summer-vacation-here-how-much-screen-time-is-too-much