The pull of the internet is undeniable. It’s a source of news, entertainment and more, it’s a way of keeping in touch, conducting business and educating ourselves. But for many of us, and our families, screen time is out of control.

Around two-thirds of the world is connected to the internet and for millions of people, juggling screen time with family responsibilities presents a unique challenge. A recent report by internet and TV marketplace Allconnect delves into the idea of screen time, why it’s such a problem and how we can manage our screen engagement. So, whether you’re into forex , marketing, you head up a fintech or are an artificial intelligence-loving IT guy, read on, because this affects you.

The Pandemic - A Screen Time Surge

COVID-19, an uninvited catalyst, significantly altered our digital habits. According to the report, American adults saw a staggering 60% increase in screen time, averaging over 13 hours a day. Children weren't spared either, with their screen engagement soaring by two hours, a trend that persists. As you’ll see later, that’s way too much. We were desperate to entertain ourselves and we picked up bad, bad habits.

The American Screen Scene

While the ideal screen limit is pegged at two hours, the average American adult spends a whopping seven hours online daily. Yes, we know, we're not American, but they have stats for everything. When compared globally, Americans are middling digital consumers, far outpaced by South Africans, but ahead of the more restrained Japanese. Age-wise, the digital divide is clear: Younger individuals are more screen-entrenched, while older adults, less engaged with digital realms, show more restraint. Yet, even the lowest usage brackets far exceed recommended limits. Seven hours a day. That number is astronomic. If that doesn’t make you blink, then proceed straight to the section titled “Ways to Control Your Screen Time”. And, if blinking hurts, get some eye drops.

Build it, now.

Children in the Digital Crosshairs

Post-pandemic, children's screen time remains elevated, raising serious concerns. The CDC reports staggering figures: Six to nine hours of daily screen engagement, depending on age. This is a far cry from the recommended one hour for children and two for adults, with children under two getting no screen time, and it signals a need for an urgent recalibration of our digital diets.

The Dark Side of Digital Dependency

Excessive screen time isn't just a number; it's a harbinger of health issues. Trouble sleeping, mood fluctuations, and even brain alterations in young users are just some of the serious consequences, as highlighted by the National Institute of Drug Abuse. For children, the stakes are higher with potential developmental impacts affecting emotional and social skills.

Ways to Control Your Screen Time

As with every addiction, acknowledging it is the first step.

Now, we can’t hand out a chip for weeks, months and years of screen sobriety, but here’s what you can suggest you do:

1. Engage in Digital Self-Awareness

Begin by measuring your digital footprint. Most devices offer in-built tools to monitor screen time, providing a reality check and a starting point for change. The results can be shocking.

2. Tech to the Rescue

However, while it can cause serious problems, technology also offers solutions. Countless apps and Apple's Screen Time feature can help manage and limit digital exposure, some of them can be found here. Many devices for kids can be turned off at specific times, or after a certain length of time.

3. Screen Time: A Conscious Choice

Resist the urge to default to screens during downtime. Boredom or stress shouldn't automatically translate to screen engagement. Explore other avenues like reading or engaging in hobbies. Get an e-reader, you can carry it anywhere. Listen to a podcast, or music, you can do this alone or as a family.

4. Mealtime: A Digital Detox

Instituting a no-device policy during meals can carve out significant screen-free time, encouraging family interaction and mindful eating.

5. Designated Device Downtime

Setting aside specific screen-free windows, especially before bed and after waking, can foster healthier habits and improve sleep quality.

6. Embracing Analog Alternatives

Instead of instinctively reaching for a device, consider activities like exercising, socializing, or indulging in a hobby.

Screen Time - A Final Word

Screen time and our heavy use of mobile devices is the bane of communication and the modern family. Exaggeration? Not really. If you spend seven hours online daily, then that’s a problem. OK, much of it is down to work, no doubt, however why on earth are you doing it at home?

All work and no play makes you a very, very dull boy or girl. So, when you’re up from the desk, turn off the screen, talk to your family, play with your kids, read a book, cook, play a board game, do anything, anything* other than look at a screen.

*As long as it’s legal.

For more stories of tech, AI, and other finance-adjacent topics, visit our Trending section.