Balancing screen time and study time: A guide for students

In today’s era, parents struggle to keep their children away from gadgets like television, tablet, mobile phones and laptops. While technology has made learning easier and more interactive, excessive screen time can affect our studies, health and overall well-being. Maintaining the time for screen and studies is crucial for academic success and a healthy lifestyle.

Why balance is important?

 Too much screen time can lead to:

Distractions- Social media, games and videos can take away precious study time.

Health Issues- Eye strain, headaches and lack of sleep are common problems.

Reduced Productivity- Multitasking between screens and studies can lower concentration and memory retention.

On the other hand, using screens wisely can help with:

# Research and Learning- Online resources, educational videos and e-books can enhance knowledge.

# Skill Development- Coding, designing and other digital skills are valuable for the future.

# Time Management- Apps can help in organizing tasks and setting reminders.

Tips to maintain a healthy balance-

# Follow the 20-20-20 rule-

After every 20 minutes of screen time, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps reduce eye strain.

# Set a study schedule-

Create a daily time table that includes study sessions, breaks and limited recreational screen time. Prioritize important subjects and stick to the plan.

# Use screen time wisely-

Instead of spending hours on social media, use screens for learning- watch educational videos, read online articles or use learning apps.

# Take regular breaks-

Studying for long hours without breaks can be exhausting. Take short breaks to stretch, go for a walk, do a quick exercise to refresh your mind.

# Limit screen time before bed-

Avoid screens at least an hour before sleeping. The blue light from screens can interfere with sleep patterns, making it harder to focus on the next day.

# Engage in offline activities-

Balance screen time with hobbies like reading books, playing sports, drawing or spending time with family, siblings or friends. This keeps your mind active and reduces screen time.

# Use Technology for learning-

Make use of digital tools like flashcard app, online quizzes and other productive apps to make studying more effective.

Conclusion-

Balancing screen time and study time is essential for students to stay focused, healthy and productive. By managing our time wisely, we can make the best use of technology without letting it take over our lives. We at Saras Heritage School, try to make our students understand the need of balancing between study time and screen time. We are focused to provide smarter and healthier approach to learning!