Pediatrician Louis DiNicola of Gifford Medical Center and Child Life Specialist Jessica Laperle, of the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock, say that screen time rules require some flexibility. Here are their tips:
■Set a good example. Don’t tell your kids to turn off their screen while you’re on yours, says DiNicola.
■Have a one-screen limit. Kids who are watching TV shouldn’t also be scrolling social media, Laperle says.
■Put screens to bed. Set a time when screens are off for the night, says Laperle. This is particularly important for teens and tweens.
■Prioritize educational programming. All media isn’t created equal, says DiNicola. For younger kids, educational programming without commercials is best. Sesame Street, Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood and Daniel Tiger are all recommended.