A Guide for Parents of Outstanding Performance Home Tutors
In today’s world, technology plays a vital role in our children’s education, but finding the right balance between screen time and study time can be challenging. As a parent working with Outstanding Performance Home Tutors, you want your child to make the most of their study sessions and avoid the negative effects of excessive screen use. Here are some practical tips to help your child achieve a healthy balance.
1. Set Clear and Consistent Screen Time Limits
Creating clear boundaries for screen time helps kids develop a routine and understand the expectations around technology use. For example:
Educational Screen Time vs. Entertainment: Differentiate between screen time used for learning (such as educational apps and online tutoring) and screen time used for leisure (like games and social media).
Establish Limits by Age: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than 1-2 hours of recreational screen time per day for kids over age 6. Adjust these limits based on your child’s needs.
2. Prioritize Study Time
Help your child establish a study-first habit. By setting a fixed time each day dedicated to studying, children learn to prioritize learning tasks over leisure. A few tips to encourage this:
Dedicated Study Hours: Set up a daily study routine that avoids screens entirely, focusing on books, written notes, and one-on-one tutoring sessions.
Use Technology as a Reward: Allow screen time as a reward after study sessions or completing homework. This provides an incentive to focus on studies first.
3. Make Study Time Engaging
If study time is effective and engaging, kids are less likely to feel the need to rush back to screens for entertainment. Here’s how to make study time more appealing:
Interactive Learning: Use hands-on activities, visual aids, and problem-solving exercises that make learning enjoyable.
Break Up Study Sessions: Break down study time into 20- to 30-minute blocks, separated by short breaks. This helps kids stay focused without feeling overwhelmed and reduces the urge to switch to screens out of boredom.
4. Model Healthy Screen Habits
Children often mimic their parents’ habits. Demonstrate a healthy relationship with technology to set a positive example:
Be Mindful of Your Screen Time: Show that you, too, prioritize screen-free activities such as reading, exercising, or engaging in hobbies.
Encourage Screen-Free Family Activities: Spend time together without screens, like going for a walk, playing a board game, or cooking as a family. This teaches children that entertainment can come from many activities.
5. Use Technology Wisely During Study Time
For children who use screens for educational purposes, make sure technology serves as a tool rather than a distraction. Some strategies include:
Educational Apps and Websites: Choose apps that engage and teach without unnecessary distractions. Consult with your tutor for recommendations on age-appropriate, effective educational resources.
Limit Multitasking: Encourage kids to close unrelated tabs and apps while studying online. Limiting distractions helps them stay focused and minimizes time spent switching between different activities.
6. Encourage Physical Activity
Physical exercise not only boosts health but also improves focus, energy levels, and overall well-being. Aim for at least 30-60 minutes of physical activity daily:
Take Breaks During Study Time: Encourage short physical breaks between study sessions to help kids refresh their minds.
Limit Sitting Time: Prolonged screen use can lead to physical strain, so make it a habit for kids to stand, stretch, or engage in active breaks.
7. Help Kids Understand the Importance of Balance
Kids may resist screen time limits if they don’t understand the reasoning behind them. Explain the benefits of balancing screen time and study time, such as better focus, improved sleep, and more time for other activities. By involving them in the discussion, you empower them to make healthier choices.
8. Monitor and Adjust as Needed
Each child is unique, and their screen time needs may change with age, school demands, and personal interests. Regularly review your child’s habits and adjust limits if needed. For instance, if your child is preparing for exams, study time might naturally increase, and recreational screen time can be reduced temporarily.
Final Thoughts
Balancing screen time and study time is a shared effort. With clear guidelines, an engaging study environment, and a strong routine, children can learn to manage their screen time wisely. By working together with our tutors and maintaining open communication, you can help your child form lifelong habits that lead to both academic success and personal well-being.
I hope this finds you well.
Sincerely,
Joshua Olarinde
Director of Studies,
For: Outstanding Performance Home Tutors
08085770009