Health Tip: Managing Your Family’s Digital Life

(HealthDay News) — TVs and computers are part of everyday life, but the American Academy of Pediatrics urges caution about overuse of digital devices.

They should never take the place of face-to-face time with family and friends, the academy says.

The AAP suggests how to manage screen use at home:

Set limits on media use and be aware of which software and apps your children are using, which sites they are visiting and what they are doing online.
Encourage unplugged playtime.
Screen time shouldn’t always bealone time. By watching with your children, you can encourage social interactions, bonding and learning.
Be a good role model.Teach good manners online, and limit your screen time.
Appreciate the value of face-to-face communication.
Create tech-free zones during mealtimes, family and social gatherings.
Don’t allow devices at night, to help kidsavoid the temptation to use them when they should be sleeping.
Do research on any apps that your kids use to monitor quality and appropriateness.
Warn children about privacy and the dangers of predators and sexting.