Minimizing Screen Time

CEBU, Philippines —  Which do you prefer: iPhone or Android? Most children think it is cool to own a smartphone or a tablet because they can easily access social media and play online games on it. However, is it really smart to be spending so much time on these gadgets? While Facebook keeps you up-to- date about what’s going on with other people’s lives, what good does it do for your studies? What useful life skills can you learn from knowing what your friends are up to?

There have been reports of health issues related to too much screen time. While you are still young, you should limit your exposure to these devices. The following are things you can do instead of lazing around and scrolling that screen up and down:

•You may draw or paint the best place you have visited. This will bring back memories and make you want to go to that place one more time.

•Have you thought about reading your favorite book again? You can rediscover why you liked it so much in the first place.

•Try going through your old picture albums. Get a load of how you used to look when you were a baby.

•Take the time to listen and dance to a music you like without watching the official video. Create your own dance steps.

•Why don’t you learn how to ride a bike, if you don’t already know how? It is a fun skill to learn and it is a good way for you to release that extra energy. Just make sure to practice in a safe place to avoid accidents. It will be great.

•You can de-clutter your bedroom or the living room. Your family will be appreciative of your effort and you will love the extra space you regain.

•Remember those cookies that you like so much? Try asking your mom to teach you how to bake them. You will have a lot of fun in the kitchen.

•Volunteer to wash the dishes. Not only will your mother be very happy, she will also be thankful that you actually know how to do some chores.

•Visit a playground near your place. It is a chance to meet new friends or meet friends that you haven’t had the chance to play with.

•You can read your past lessons and use a highlighter pen to emphasize the important points.

You see, there’s a lot of stuff that you can do that will make you happy and give you that feeling of satisfaction knowing that you have accomplished something. - Zaida Marie A. Tambis