Turn Off and Turn On

How many hours does the average child spend in front of a television or computer per day?

If you said six-and-a-half hours, you're right. A 1999 study found that children spend an average of six hours and 32 minutes per day on television, movies, video games and computer time. That works out to 80% of an average child's spare time.¹

How does your child compare?

Experts recommend that children get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day. Children who don't get enough physical activity on most days increase their risk for becoming overweight and developing life-threatening conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

Try these techniques to lure your kids away from the screens and into a more active lifestyle:

• Set a screen time budget. Allow each child just 1–2 hours per day for TV, movies, video games and fun time on the computer. (Homework doesn't count.) Let your child decide how he or she will spend this time.
• Create an after-school action plan. Sometimes kids just need ideas of things to do other than sitting in front of a screen. Why not brainstorm a “top ten” list of activities with your child? Post it next to the refrigerator, the television and the computer, and get them moving.
• TV time can be active time. Got an exercise bike? Put it in front of the television and take turns spinning the wheels. Or try jogging in place or stretching during commercials.
• No TV dinners. Turn off the TV during meal times. This way, you can tune into one another and enjoy a meal together. You're also more likely to be aware of how much you're eating, and picking up your body's signals that you're full.
• Be a good example. The best way help your kids spend less time in front of a screen is to do so yourself. Reduce your own TV and computer time and you'll find everyone has more time to be active together.

1. Kids & Screen Time at www.getkidsinaction.org. Visited 9/15/2005.