Oh my! Don’t tell us that our little snuggles are inclining towards the screen more than toys. Littloo parents, we get your worries as this is something that’s on pretty much everyone’s mind these days. People now often ask us the question how to manage screen time for their little babies. But seems like an impossible task, isn’t it? Since we live in a digital world, it’s unavoidable, right? But think of something first, how much is too much? And how can we manage this whole screen time thing in a way that’s still healthy and beneficial for our little ones? Let’s set those baby screen time limits and protect their childhood.
Littloo has brought you their screen-free activities guide and of course, we’re not here to judge any child and your parenting! Let’s explore the challenges and also look at some friendly, practical tips for managing your baby’s exposure to screens. Are you ready?
What Are The Risks of Early Screen Time?
These days we often see parents giving their kids mobile phones and letting them watch TV when they are preoccupied with work. This makes it easier for them to accomplish their work. No, no, we aren’t blaming parents, but this hectic lifestyle has bound them to do so. But in the long run, this habit can turn disastrous. That’s why limiting early screen time is important. So, what are the solutions to get your baby off the screen? Hold your horses, parents, we will definitely set baby screen time limits! We know you are eager to know the solutions but we must not carelessly jump into solutions without knowing the risks of early screen time.
Dear parents, your baby’s brain is developing in its early years, and it needs real-world experiences to thrive not artificial representations of it. That’s why when they get too much screen time, it can take away from those necessary interactions and explorations.
Read More: Fun Ways to Bond with Your Baby: Activities for Parents & Infants
Growth At Early Years & Baby Screen Time Limits:
Mum and Dad, there are several things that a baby goes through during the early years. This growth is not just about height, weight or physical appearance but we are talking about things like language development, attention spans, and sleep patterns. But if your baby is spending too much time on screen, this affects their growth negatively. Since every child is different, they react differently in each situation. But we can’t deny that the majority of children these days are suffering from improper growth in their early years. So, now this is our responsibility to create a healthy balance.
Littloo’s tech and toddler development guide says that if you expose your babies early to screens, it will lead to cognitive impairments and developmental delays. Do you know that, for children under 18 years old, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends no screen time, except for video chatting with family members? So, this is clear, we must too set baby screen time limits.
Now, Let’s Set Boundaries & Create Screen-Free Environment!
Alright, Littloo parents, we have talked enough about how screen time affects your child and why we must be mindful of their screen time. Now, it is the time we reveal how to set boundaries. For our little snuggles, it is important to create boundaries and carve out screen-free zones. What is this screen-free zone? Ready to get started and know it?
Screen-Free Zones For Our Little Snuggles:
The sceen-free zone is your little healthy ecosystem that provides a screen-free environment for your baby. These zones are the designated areas like the nursery and dining table that encourage meaningful interactions and reduce distractions. Sounds positive and amazing, isn’t it? Littloo’s baby screen time limits guide says that it will help you to create a calm environment that encourages engagement and conversation in your baby.
Let’s Encourage Healthy Habits and Healthy Behaviour:
Sweety pies, we must set an example before our children. Let’s model healthy screen habits. What is that? It is about limiting our own screen time before babies. When you yourself are indulging in too much screen time, babies will automatically imitate you. Littloo suggests when you are around your baby, you must engage in interactive activities. This not only will set a good example but also help you spend quality time with your child. So, are you ready to set this boundary for yourself, our baby screen time limits guide says you should.
Read More: Benefits of Tummy Time: Essential Tips for Baby's Development
Set Your Own Rules and Stick to Them:
This is a creative idea that will not look forced. Instead of limiting everything individually, you can develop a family screen time plan. This plan should set clear limits and also, alternative activities. Also, you can use alarm clocks, set timers and make schedules to help your baby understand when screen time is allowed and when is not.
Look For These Alternatives to Screen Time!
Our baby screen time limits guide says to look for alternatives to screen time. But what do we do with our little ones instead? That’s the million-dollar question, are we right? Don’t worry, Littloo has all the answers! We have a few screen-free activities that are surprisingly simple and rewarding. Let’s tap into their natural curiosity and love of exploration.
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Have you heard about sensory play? In this playful activity, you can introduce your baby to different textures, colours, and sounds. A baby teether is a great way to engage their senses while soothing their gums. This enhances their learning process while keeping them entertained without screens..
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Let’s bring back the charm of reading. Littloo says you should start reading to your baby early to cultivate a love for books. This will definitely enhance their language skills.
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Littloo’s baby screen time limits guide says to give your babies floor time. Instead of getting them hooked to the screen, let them explore the surroundings. A water play mat can make floor time even more exciting, providing sensory stimulation while encouraging tummy time and motor skill development.
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The best way to stay away from the screen is to go on an outdoor stroll. These strolls will also evoke curiosity in them.
Littloo’s Care Note For Parents!
Parents, before we say goodbye, we must leave a care note for you. Sweety pies, it’s normal for babies to resist new rules, especially if they’re accustomed to screen time. So don’t lose hope and your patience! Instead, just be consistent and avoid debating the rules and don’t let the dilemma overpower you. You can do it! All the best!