It’s back to school today.
This morning, Mariam Serkal and Aaron Tompkins discuss with Dr Julie Gowthorpe, RSW on how to shift habits when we know it is uncomfortable, including limits on cell phone use in Ontario classrooms.
Excessive screen time and social media use can impact children’s sleep, mental health, and academic performance. Screen use, particularly before bedtime, disrupts sleep patterns and can lead to fatigue and difficulty concentrating in school. Social media can also contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, and poor self-esteem among adolescents.
Parents play a crucial role in modeling healthy behaviors and this includes screen habits. At home, reduce screen time before bed, maybe sit together before bed rather than letting kids scroll on their phone for endless hours before sleep, and encourage face-to-face interactions with friends as they adjust.