January 2017

The topic of screen time is very hot in today's parent discussions. How much, when, what type etc.? I have been struggling with this in my home and with my four year old. We recently have begun allowing our daughter to watch a show when she gets home from school as a way to wind down at the end of her day. She is in school six hours a day and my husband and I have found that the ability for her to "zone out" for 30 minutes is something that she very much enjoys. I tend to sit with her while she enjoys her show. Mainly I sit with her because of the incredible research that has been done on the difference between screen time alone and screen time with an adult. If you would Ike to read more visit:

https://www.babycenter.com/0_tv-watching-guidelines-for-toddlers_11746.bc 

Parenting is like the law, ignorance is not an excuse. If you read the research and make decisions that fit your life that is a productive and fantastic way to approach parenting. It is not about following every rule that is thrown at you but rather is about knowing and making a choice. My daughter wakes up almost every morning asking to watch a show or inquiring about when she can watch a show. It is amazing to me that even with a routine (a recent attempt at making the inquiries stop) and limited exposure she is fascinated and almost obsessed with the glowing box. While it may seem easier to fold and allow her questions and demands for more television to work, my husband and I made a choice and are standing our ground. It is amazing how many small wars we fight as parents. Remember that you are a gladiator and can do this. Parent strong, all day, week, month, year....long!