Recently, my seven-year-old was engrossed in the new “Octonauts” movie. He excitedly shared that there were many volcanoes in the Pacific Ocean. “That’s right,” I replied. “It’s known as ‘The Ring of Fire.’” He responded with confidence, explaining how it surrounds the Pacific Ocean and that some volcanoes are small while others are massive. After he returned to watching, I reflected on how he learned this information from a cartoon. It’s easy to criticize screen time, but not all of it is harmful.
If you disagree, you might not have experienced the educational value of shows like “Sesame Street” during your childhood. I still find myself singing the counting song from “Sesame Street” when I stumble over numbers in Duolingo Spanish, especially when it comes to seis and siete. That show taught me fundamental Spanish words, environmental awareness, and even some life lessons about loss—a real testament to its impact. Sure, my parents may have let me watch shows like “David the Gnome,” but “Sesame Street” was a worthy investment of my screen time.
With the rise of quality children’s programming, it’s unjust to label all screen time as bad. Not everything is like “Caillou.” While my kids do indulge in some less-than-stellar content (looking at you, “Dragonriders”), they also enjoy plenty of educational shows.
So, please don’t judge me. My kids frequently watch “Magic School Bus,” where Ms. Frizzle’s adventures are both entertaining and informative. Sure, they may also enjoy shows like “Amphibia” and “Gravity Falls,” but there’s a balance, and educational content is a priority.
The Judgment Surrounding Screen Time
When I mention that my children often watch TV during lunch and dinner, I can sense the judgment from others. They assume I’m a negligent parent, contributing to a decline in family values. But what if I told you that they only watch documentaries that align with their homeschooling lessons? Picture them munching on chicken nuggets while diving into a documentary about paleontology or human evolution. That’s not just screen time; it’s a valuable learning experience. They can pronounce “Neanderthal” correctly and discuss their historical range and extinction theories—all thanks to a screen.
Embracing the Future of Screen Time
My husband, a high school teacher, often emphasizes that screen time is the future. If you feel helpless in prying your child away from their devices, consider that they’re preparing for the world they’ll inhabit. My eldest reads physical books, but he also enjoys e-books on his Kindle Fire. Is that still screen time? He uses his tablet for research, including UFO sightings.
In the classroom, students are increasingly using technology—not just for word processing but also for watching educational videos and reading literature online. They engage with friends and participate in social activities through screens, which has become even more vital during the pandemic.
The Value of Online Socialization
Many friendships today are fostered online. My 11-year-old plays Dungeons and Dragons with friends via video calls. Yes, we are aware of the potential dangers of online interactions, including cyberbullying and inappropriate content. However, platforms like Facebook Messenger Kids have enabled my dysgraphic son to communicate and stay connected during isolation. This screen time has provided him with crucial social interactions and mental health support over the past year.
So, let’s stop the judgment about screen time. While some parents may let their kids mindlessly play video games, much of the screen time can be constructive and worthwhile. Even if my children are currently watching “Amphibia,” they will soon transition to something more educational.
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Summary
Not all screen time is detrimental; it can be educational and enriching, depending on the content. While some parents may criticize screen use, many children benefit from watching programs that teach valuable lessons and concepts. Balancing screen time with educational content can foster learning and social interaction, especially in today’s digital age.