Before COVID 19, “Screen Time” was the great evil, rotting our brains, eroding the lost art of conversation, and keeping us lonely.  And yet, during this time of isolation, technology is keeping us connected, working, and staying healthy.  So, “Screen Time” itself is not inherently evil, malignant, or harmful.

It can be useful to see “Screen Time” like a good meal.  The Main Course is healthy, and the desert is fun and should be in moderation.

The Main Course (Healthy Screen Time)

1. Formal Education.  Continuing studies at all levels.
2. Informal Eduction.  Curiosity and learning, webinars, training, etc.
3. Conversation.  Face to face conversation grows bonds between people.
4. Video. Like a good book, it can entertain, teach, and present new ideas.
5. Audio.  Podcasts are just great, especially while working physically.
6. Puzzle Gaming.  Gaming keeps the brain healthy.
7. Work.  Make a living, of course.

The Dessert (Limit this Screen Time)

1. 24/7 News.  Limit watching.  It cannot all be “Breaking News”.  It sours the view of the world.
2. Social Media.  The Endless Scroll.  Loneliness.  Comparison.  Envy.
3. Aggressive Gaming.  Aggression.  Domination.  Swearing.
4. Mindless Video.  Reality TV.  Judging.  Faking.
5. Shopping.  It is NOT a pastime.  And it hurts your pocketbook and future.
6. Texting.  Pick up the phone, or teleconference.

The Cigarettes (Do not Participate)

1. Public Shaming.  Do not participate in nor condone calling out others for their misdeeds.
2. Vitriol.  Civil discourse and respect online.  Be responsible with how you deliver messages.  Do not personalize.
3. Bullying/Harassment.  No need to bully others online.

A Note on Intergenerational Connection

Grandchildren are training grandparents to use face to face technologies such as FaceTime and zoom.  Older citizens left out of the technology game are learning to install video apps.  The younger generations are becoming more aware of loneliness.  The net result is that generations are strengthening connections as they have for millennia, telling stories, imparting wisdom, and just listening to each other.

Just. Being. Human.

A Note on Children, Discipline and Diet

Parents trying to control their children’s use of technology appears to be the same as trying to control their children’s diets.  At least with food, the parent can hide the junk food or sugary treats so the child does not binge.  How do parent’s effectively hide some screen activities?  Hint: It is not really possible.

With food, many parents believe that instilling good dietary habits is the answer.  The box of Oreos is always within grasp, and the child self-moderates.  Can the same be done for screen time?

Self-moderation is a contentious issue for many parents, and epic battles happen every day, especially during COVID-19 crisis.  One way to reduce the heat is to help children be aware of their use of the technology, what is healthy, and when it is too much.  Leave the “Oreos” out and promote other alternatives and praise them for those.  Participate with them in those other activities.

Most importantly, parents can demonstrate proper technology hygiene, and the kids will follow.

Technological Nutrition

When we are aware of our use of technology, we can use it for good.  Connecting with others, self-improvement, and entertainment, all in in the proper proportions can give us the best chance of happiness and make the world a better place.