The Truth About Screen Time: It’s All About Moderation
As a mom, I get it – we’re constantly juggling a million things at once. There are deadlines to meet, meals to prep, laundry to fold, and don’t even get me started on all the other little tasks that just seem to pile up when you’re trying to balance everything. Sometimes, we just need a few minutes of peace, right?
Enter: the screens. Whether it’s a tablet, phone, or TV, screens can be a mom’s best friend when you need a moment to yourself. But with all the advice out there about how much screen time is “too much,” it can feel like a tightrope walk between letting your little one have some screen time and feeling guilty about it.
Here’s the thing: screen time in moderation isn’t the enemy.
The Reality of Modern Parenting
As much as we want to create a world where our kids are always engaged in educational activities or playing outside, the reality is that life doesn’t always allow for that. Sometimes you need to get things done, and no matter how much we try to entertain our kids with books, crafts, or outside play, there will always be moments when they need to be occupied so we can get stuff done too.
It doesn’t make you a bad mom – it makes you a human one.
Screen Time Doesn’t Have to Be the Villain
The key is moderation. My rule of thumb is: if the screen time is educational or at least meaningful, it’s okay in my book. There are tons of apps, shows, and videos that can teach kids something while keeping them entertained. Learning through play is still learning – even if it happens on a screen. Plus, the way I see it, the goal isn’t perfection, it’s progress.
Some of my personal favorites for my baby include Miss Rachel, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, and Between the Lions (which is from my era), along with the classic Sesame Street. These shows are not only fun but also teach valuable lessons like counting, letters, kindness, and problem-solving. But I also know that my baby’s interests are different – he loves music and color, and watching him enjoy a show he loves is priceless.
If your child is watching a show that promotes kindness, learning numbers, or exploring different cultures, that’s still beneficial. Apps that encourage problem-solving or storytelling skills can also be great, especially when you’re using them as a tool to support their development – not as a crutch to keep them quiet for hours.
Balancing the Digital World with Real Life
The real trick is balance. Set boundaries around screen time. I don’t let my kid have access to screens all day, but I also don’t feel guilty when I need to use that time to knock out a few things. If you’re feeling concerned about how much screen time your child gets, try to balance it out with physical activities, time spent outdoors, or simple one-on-one moments that don’t involve technology. It’s all about balance.
The Big Picture: It’s About the Whole Lifestyle
Parenting is a marathon, not a sprint. Every family is different, and what works for one may not work for another. The reality is, we all have different lifestyles, and that means our approach to screen time will vary too. What matters most is that we find a balance that works for our family, and that’s the most authentic way we can live our lives.
No matter what the experts say, the reality is that we can’t be 100% entertaining all the time. We need a break, and our kids do too. So, as long as it’s in moderation and as part of a well-rounded day, a little screen time here and there is perfectly fine.
In the end, it’s not about being perfect – it’s about doing your best, managing your time, and being there for your family in the ways that matter most. So, let go of the guilt and embrace the balance. You’ve got this, mama.
Think about it: What’s your approach to screen time with your little one? How do you balance life and technology without feeling overwhelmed? Share your thoughts – I’d love to hear how other moms make it work!
