Children and screens, a public health issue: How can screen time be transformed into shared, active and educational time?
Did you know? Unfortunately, you already know... Screens are omnipresent in children's daily lives, often to the detriment of their health. The recent study Enfants et écrans, à la recherche du temps perdu (Children and screens, in search of lost time) highlights their harmful effects: lack of sleep, sedentary lifestyle, risk of obesity and even impacts on psychological well-being.
The Grande Cause Nationale 2024 for the promotion of physical activity also highlights digital solutions for moving + with the Sportech Grande Cause call for projects, which has put forward our friends WeWard and CoolRool as well as Sporty Peppers! All 3 of us are part of the SporTech collective working to build a sporting nation!
Practical advice for parents:
The importance of rethinking the role of screens in children's lives, with practical solutions adapted to every household. With concrete actions, it is possible to limit these risks while promoting a healthier, more balanced use of screens.
- Share the screen: Watch an educational video or play games together to bond, while setting limits on screen time.
- Develop healthy habits: Establish screen-free periods, such as during meals or before bedtime, to encourage sleep and family communication.
- Alternate activity and rest: Suggest a physical activity after each screen session: a walk outside, a few simple exercises or an impromptu dance in the living room.
- Encourage movement: Transform screen time into active opportunities, for example with moving video games like Sporty Peppers, which stimulate physical activity while entertaining young and old alike.
The key point? Not to demonize screens, but to integrate them in a positive, balanced way into children's daily lives, while setting a good example.
Benefits for your family: By adopting these habits, you reduce screen-related health risks, stimulate creativity and strengthen family ties.
With tools like Sporty Peppers, a more active, joyful and healthy routine is within reach! 🎉
Sources : Etude Enfants et écrans, à la recherche du temps perdu
