Why More Physical Activity and Less Screen Time Make Healthier Kids
Health professionals all over the world are calling the attention of parents when it comes to increasing screen time and its effect on a child’s well-being. This is not to say that allowing kids to play with gadgets is altogether bad – it is the unregulated and excessive use that needs to be addressed.
What do we mean by screen time?
According to the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network, screen time is the duration spent looking at a screen. Screens include that of televisions, tablets, computers, mobile devices, and video consoles. When used appropriately by kids, these gadgets are useful for educational and communication. They are an important part of distance learning, especially during the lockdown. When children, however, start to spend more time with gadgets than with parents or family – things take an unhealthy turn.
There are other ways for kids to spend their time besides the internet and video games. The most recommended option is physical play. Encouraging children to exercise and engage in physical activities will reduce their risk of illnesses and make them physically fit. Why more physical activity and less screen time make healthier kids? Let us count the ways.
Physical Activity vs. Screen Time
One negative impact of increased screen time on kids is weight gain. Since children spend more time sitting or lying around, they are barely burning calories. What parents may overlook in this situation is that, oftentimes, the little ones are also eating junk food while using their gadgets. This is a double whammy situation when it comes to their overall wellbeing.
Meanwhile, increased physical activity means the children’s bodies are busy burning excess fats and building muscles (when accompanied with the right diet). Australian health authorities even recommend that children must engage in physical activities and exercise at least one hour a day.
Until the age of 14 or 15, children’s eyes are still developing. This means that their eyes are more sensitive to blue light. Exposure to screens in the evening can prevent the onset of sleep among young ones. Lack of sleep can lead to more serious concerns like behavioral changes and weight change.
Physical exercise, on the other hand, can help improve blood circulation. Kids who engage in physical activities tend to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Playing basketball or getting a jumping castle hire Brisbane service during the day can leave the young ones sleeping peacefully by night.
Your child is more prone to neck and back strain the longer he or she uses digital devices. If you are not careful about the posture of your child, he or she can spend hours hunching over screens. Make sure that the device is just below your kid’s line of vision with his or her neck in a neutral and relaxed position.
Playing outside and exercising can develop bones and muscles. Engaging in sports will also improve the posture and stamina of your child.
Combining a healthy diet and age-appropriate physical activities will do wonders for the well-being of your child. If the child is not yet into sports, you can introduce other activities like playing with jumping castle hire Brisbane inflatable rentals. Raise fit children by setting a regular schedule for outside games and exercises and by limiting children's screen time. Be active together and make it fun.
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