I <3 MnM's asked:


for my 5yr old boy to be spending per day on these? He has just started school. How long do other parents let there kids spend on these per day??? Thanks,
Also people who dont have kids- how long do you think is ok?

Lonnie

7 Responses to “Tv/computer/electronic games - how long is too long?”

1. Jamie W on November 24th, 2009 3:53 am

   I do not have kids, but I have been a babysitter for many, even ones with ADD. Most moms I know just make sure all their kids’ homework is done, send them outside for an hour or two to play ball, walk the dog, run around, or play with friends. Then some make their kids read for another hour or two, and some even have reading lists for their kids. First and foremost, though, after homework is household chores. So, after the homework, chores, outside time, and reading, a lot of kids are already pooped out. If yours can make it that far, I would be proud of him and let him play for as long as he wanted given everything else is done. At least that is how most moms of straight A, good kids I know handle things. Good luck

2. rachel on November 26th, 2009 8:14 pm

   I allow 1 hr on friday after school and on Sunday they are allowed it for a couple of hours while I have a sleep in (though it is banned in mornings at the moment as they had a fight) and on occasions they may have it at other times. I was painting the house today so I allowed it for a few hours so I didn’t get “help” lol. Though one still came to help and it was actually great.

3. SoCalBoy on November 28th, 2009 7:22 am

   I would let the tv, computer, electronic games be a reward after he’s completed his homework and chores, but definitely limit it daily. I’d say one hour is sufficient. I’m an advocate of children going outside to play. Our nation’s kids are facing an obesity epidemic ’cause they can entertain themselves all day on the computer or tv.

   I don’t have kids, but I believe I was one of those kids that watched waaaay to much television growing up. I think it stunted my social growth, but that’s just me.

4. harold b on November 30th, 2009 11:04 am

   7-13 hrs. day

5. momof4 on December 2nd, 2009 11:12 pm

   an hour is plenty (for the total for all those things).

   there’s nothing wrong with (at least some programs on) tv, some computer games, etc. but time spent doing that is not as well spent as time doing other fun things … like playing outside. aim to let your son play actively (preferably outdoors) for a couple hours every day. aim to read to him for a half an hour a day (and consider having him read to himself for another half hour). in our family, with dinner, homework, reading time, outdoor time, playdates, etc., that just doesn’t leave more than an hour a day for electronic media.

6. Lydia on December 6th, 2009 5:29 am

   Best is one hour ’screen time’ - so any combo of those you mentioned.
   A five year old needs physical PLAY, not being stuck in front of a screen. Don’t use it as a babysitter.

7. RC cheerleader on December 8th, 2009 3:54 am

   1 hour a day*