Viva Vitality: ‘Influence’ a healthy relationship with technology

By Megan Burland on October 18, 2024.

Have you ever reviewed the screen time monitoring data in your smartphone settings? I have. Yikes! Becoming a parent has made me more aware of my family’s screen time and given me a chance to reflect on what I want the norms to be in our household. Media Literacy Week, Oct. 21-25, is a great chance to consider how screens fit in your life too.

One of the most startling statistics available on my phone is ‘notifications’. Recently, while reviewing my weekly phone usage, I noticed that I was receiving an average of 83 notifications a day. Pardon me? Most of mine appear to be message notifications. I am fortunate that I remember a world without internet, without cell phones – when people couldn’t get ahold of me 24/7.

There is a time and a place for everything but I’m not sure I always appreciate being quite so available. I also have a smartwatch which means I’m instantly alerted and distracted by every notification that comes through. These notifications reinforce the feeling that we need to check our phone constantly. This is a state of distraction that I’ve gotten used to and I admit I find it very hard not to check my phone when I get a notification (and even if I don’t).

I’m more aware now of the perception this may give to those around me, and I want to set a good example for my child.

Some of the strategies we are trying to incorporate into our household include:

• Discussing limits as a family. We have decided on some ‘phone free zones’. For us, this includes mealtimes, family gatherings, before bedtime and during family walks. We have also researched the recommendations and have determined limits for screen time for our child.

• Turning off unnecessary notifications from apps. I don’t need to instantly know about sales or when my friend posts a photo.

• Setting time limits on apps that are meant to draw you into mindless scrolling.

• Being aware when I’m distracted during quality time with my family and friends and if so, muting notifications and putting my phone away.

• Reflecting on my screen time frequently. Do I need a break from certain apps or social media? Am I able to be present in my day-to-day interactions?

The Canadian Paediatric Society has published information including more strategies adults can use to model healthy screen use and ways to support your children in developing a healthy relationship with screens. For more information visit caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/behavior-and-development and healthyparentshealthychildren.ca.

Megan Burland is a health promotion facilitator with Alberta Health Services’ Population Health Promotion program

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