Dr. Stephanie Haridopolos, interim surgeon general, warns that too much screen time at an early age may interfere with children’s brain development, attention, memory, and language skills.
Creating Healthier Digital Habits
The U.S. Surgeon General’s Office has outlined a framework known as the ‘5 Ds’ to help families create healthier digital habits. The steps include ‘Discuss’, ‘Do’, ‘Divert’, ‘Disconnect’, and ‘Delay’. These steps focus on setting boundaries and reducing unnecessary screen use.
Health officials recommend that families create screen rules before conflicts happen by talking together about when, where, and how long devices can be used. Establishing clear expectations ahead of time can reduce daily arguments and help children understand healthy limits.
Parents are encouraged to model responsible behavior, as children often mirror what they see adults doing. Families can replace screen time with other activities, such as arts and crafts, outdoor play, reading, or helping prepare meals.
Regular screen-free moments throughout the day, such as during meals or car rides, can help families reset digital boundaries. Health officials also recommend turning off blue-light devices at least an hour before sleep to avoid disrupting natural sleep patterns.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
