Screen Time Limits for Kids
I’m one of those wacky people that could probably not have a TV and be just fine. The only time I watch is when I fold laundry. In 2011, to make our first maternity leave budget work, we cut our cable television. For a month, we missed a few channels, but beyond that, we streamed shows and watched hockey games online. Life went on!
Since having children, we have come to need or want a small break at times. Popping on a quick educational show is fantastic for this. I get a few more phone calls, a couple more showers, or just a quiet cup of tea. Let’s face it, some days, that just helps you keep your sanity.
One of the problems in my household is that I don’t really want those moments to end. Selfish? Maybe, a little. Mr J tends to get involved in a show, and then it never really turns off. It really bothers me to see him sitting there zombie-like at the television. I really wanted a solution that allowed me to set a time limit.
The other issue with television watching is that we tend to binge watch certain characters and shows. When the pictures show up for this favourites, suddenly we can’t possibly consider another show or character. There’s only so much backpack, backpack I can take. When my husband and his friends are singing what time is it? It’s time for LUNCH! together, you know we have a problem (and we’re not the only ones).
So, How Much Screen Time Is Appropriate?
For preschoolers, The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends a total media/screen time of less than 1 hour of quality educational viewing each day. For children under the age of 2 years, they discourages any screen time. For children over 2 years, 1-2 hours a day of media time is considered appropriate.
I love that they mention all the other great activities there are to enjoy as a family too – outdoor adventures, reading, and active play. To put it in perspective – the physical activity recommendation is 3 hours/day. 3x the amount of screen time! That part has never been difficult – our Mr J and Ms P love being outside!
Kidoodle.TV makes screen limits simple
Kidoodle.TV is an online, streaming video service for children ages 12 and under. It features educational content from a variety of sources for only $4.99/month, Kidoodle.TV is child oriented and convenient, with no adult content and no commercials.
Upon logging into Kidoodle.TV, you can easily set viewing limits. Or explore other personalized features like sorting shows by appropriate age range or customize what specific shows can be viewed.
You can customize content to age group as well as turning specific shows on or off. Sick of a certain character or show? Just slide it off and enjoy all the other content that Kidoodle.TV has to offer.
Want to try Kidoodle.TV?
- Download the apps from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store or use online at kidoodle.tv
- Sign up for a free 14 day trial (no credit card required).
- Special offer for our readers > Buy a 1 year subscription for 25% off with the coupon code – MCC25 (good until 30/5/14).
- Enter below to win a 1 year subscription (closes 20/4/14).
Disclosure: I am part of the Kidoodle.TV blogger program with Mom Central Canada and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.
a passionate recreation coordinator by day, crazy farm mama of two by night. i live outdoors: growing my own food, camping and hiking with my border collie with two active kids in tow. when I’m not writing, I’m experimenting with recipes, and crafts – or anything else that might keep the monkeys entertained.
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