How To Make The Most Out Of Your Child’s Screen Time

Many families are working to establish new routines as we adjust to more time at home. Most children are likely spending more time online or watching TV as parents work from home and take charge of schooling, recreational activities, and regular parental duties. Trumpet is here to tell you that if your child is spending more time with technology right now, it’s okay. Many children with autism love using technology, and during these times, it’s alright to let your child use technology more often as you juggle working from home and other day to day tasks. If your child is spending more time online or watching TV, here’s how you can make the most of your child’s technology usage.

Find Quality Content

YouTube can keep kids busy for hours, but with autoplay and thousands of videos available, your child could end up watching content that’s not age-appropriate. Make sure to disable the “autoplay” feature and check in with your child more often when they’re using sites without parental controls. If you want your child to use technology for more academic or scholastic purposes, check out our list of free online homeschool programs. Many are created to look like computer games, which can entice your child to spend more time learning.

Plan Ahead

If you’re juggling working from home or other day to day tasks, plan when your child will use technology. If you have a few conference calls, that may be a great time to put on your child’s favorite TV show. If it’s possible, review the day’s activities with your child so they know when to expect TV or technology time. This can help keep your child engaged with the day’s activities, and help you balance working and parenting.

Use Technology As Reinforcement

Most children love technology, which makes it a high-value reward. Many children with autism have technology incorporated into their treatment plan as a reinforcement for completing other tasks. At home, you can follow a similar model. If you’re unsure about how to use technology as a reinforcement, talk with your clinical team. They’ll be able to provide tips and methods that will work with your child’s specific needs.

Use Media Together

When you can, watch shows or explore online resources together. This gives your child a chance for more interaction, and you can use your shared experience to increase your child’s engagement with the material.

In these unprecedented times, Trumpet is here to support you in any way we can. If your child with autism is having difficulty adjusting to their new routine, contact Trumpet Behavioral Health. Our team can provide telehealth services and remotely support you as a parent or caregiver.