Screen time toolkit
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About this toolkit
The Sydney Children's Hospitals Network (SCHN) has worked with our clinicians to produce the following resources about screen time to be shared.
The resources below are free to use and share widely on social media and other digital platforms of community and health organisations. This includes schools, daycares, medical clinics, public health networks, Local Health Districts, NGOs and community centres.
Videos
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When screen use starts to impact your teens daily routine and wellbeing, it might be time to make a change. The goal isn’t to cut out screens completely - it’s about finding balance.
Try to:
- Check screen time usage – Take a look at screen time stats. How much time is spent on apps that don’t really add value? Set realistic limits and make small improvements from there.
- Focus on quality screen time –Screen time can be really useful and educational - like learning something new or perfecting a skill or interest with a tutorial.
- Reduce distractions to reduce overall use – Turn off notifications on unimportant apps and declutter by uninstalling apps that don’t have a strong connective or educational purpose.
#reducingscreentime #screentime #kidshealth
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Too much screen use can impact a child's vision, learning and long-term eye health.
Here’s how you can help:
- Schedule regular eye checks for your child
- Get outdoors in bright, natural light
- Speak to your doctor if you have any concerns
Learn more at the SCHN Kids Health Hub.
#shortsightedness #myopia #screentime
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Educational shows can be a way for your toddler to learn, but nothing compares to what they learn from their interactions with you. This is why chatting, reading and playing together is so valuable.
To find the right balance, try to:
- Read with your toddler for 10 - 20 minutes before bed
- Ask them questions about what they are watching
- Keep screen time intentional and keep them off until they are really needed
Small changes can make a big difference.
Visit our comments for the link to the full video
#screentime #kidshealth #languagedevelopment #serveandreturn
See the full Q&A video with Katie Mooy, Speech Pathologist from The Children's Hospital at Westmead.
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Ever known a toddler who has thrown a tantrum because their show ended too soon? Turning off screens can feel like the end of the world, but it doesn't have to be.
Tantrums are a part of normal development. Here’s our top tips for helping your toddler when they’re in the heat of the moment. Share your tech tantrum tips and tricks in the comments.
#techtantrums #tantrums #screentime #toddlers #kidshealth
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Screens are a part of life, but nothing beats quality face time with your children. Engaging with your child or teen can strengthen your bond, boost their learning and development and support wellbeing.
Take a moment to disconnect from your screen and prioritise what really matters. The best connection is right in front of you.
#disconnecttoreconnect #screentime #kidshealth
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For young kids, putting the screen away can be easier said than done. As children grown, they will learn self-control and focus but, in the meantime, they rely on you to help break the cycle.
Try to focus on improving quality over quantity and slowly reduce overall screen time use.
Help your child build positive and lasting screen habits.
#reducingscreentime #screentime #kidshealth
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Turning off screens can trigger big emotions in young kids. Here’s why and the steps you can take to manage a meltdown.
Tell us what works in your home to make the switch from screen time easier in the comments.
#techtantrums #screentime #kidshealth
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