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Children and Technology: How Much Screen Time is Okay?

Creative Childcare • September 26, 2019

Technology nowadays is easily accessible, even for a small toddler. From watching cartoons on the TV to checking out online games and videos, your child is likely to be exposed to one form of media use as they are growing up. While this is normal, if you end up having to pry their gadgets away during meals, you have to change things.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, too much screen time, the term used for the time that’s spent on games, devices and videos, can have a negative effect on your child’s sleep, health and social skills. Understanding how this behaviour and technology affects their cognitive development is a key part of child care in Australia.

Can Too Much Screen Time Hinder Development?

Based on the research by Sheri Madigan and the University of Calgary’s department of psychology, children who are being put in front of screens often show signs of delayed development.

The study tracked the progress of over 2,400 children, asking their mothers to complete questionnaires that assessed the kid’s screen time and development during the key ages of 2, 3 and 5. Not surprisingly, the study revealed that higher levels of screen time at the ages of 2 and 3 resulted in poorer performance on developmental screening tests that challenged their communication, problem-solving and motor skills.

Managing Screen Time for Your Children

Completely cutting off access to gadgets, however, is not the best answer. What’s important is properly managing their screen time in a way that benefits them.

Children aged 2 to 5 years should be limited to only one hour of screen time per day. Let them watch educational programs that can help boost their cognitive, literacy and social skills. It’s best to stay involved and watch these with them, however, so you can guide them and help them understand what they are watching. Be sure to include playdates and outdoor free time as part of their learning experience in childcare centres in Australia.

It can be much harder to keep tabs on the screen time of children aged 6 and older, but it’s important to set limits and make sure that screens don’t replace real-life interactions. You can also make a family plan defining the different types of media use and provide the amount of time they can spend on each one.

It can be tempting to let children watch shows nonstop while we go about our day. After all, this ensures that they stay out of trouble while we accomplish chores. However, it’s important to consider the effect this can have on our children.

Modelling the preferred behaviour is a great way to help children understand and follow your set rules. We follow this mindset at Creative Childcare Australia . Learn more about your child’s development and education by getting in touch with us today.

January 14, 2025
Creative Childcare Hunter Street Reconciliation. At Creative Childcare Hunter Street, reconciliation is more than a process; it’s a meaningful journey that we embrace together. By fostering respectful relationships and celebrating diversity, we aim to create a vibrant and inclusive environment for every child in our care. Here’s how our reconciliation initiatives are making a difference every day: Embracing Cultural Awareness Our journey begins with cultivating cultural awareness. Through storytelling, music, and art, we introduce children to diverse cultural heritages. These engaging sessions spark curiosity and encourage children to celebrate the richness of different traditions. By exploring these stories together, we nurture understanding and appreciation from an early age. Interactive Learning Experiences We believe hands-on experiences are key to understanding. Children at our centre participate in interactive activities, from traditional games and dances to creating art inspired by cultural motifs. These activities help children connect with cultural expressions in a meaningful way, fostering respect and joy in diversity. Building Relationships with Local Communities Strong connections with local communities are at the heart of our approach. We collaborate with community leaders, artists, and educators to enrich our programs. Guest speakers and community events provide opportunities for children to learn directly from cultural knowledge holders, fostering authentic relationships and shared experiences. Incorporating Diverse Perspectives Our curriculum is designed to reflect a variety of perspectives across all learning areas. By integrating cultural stories, traditions, and environmental knowledge into everyday activities, we help children develop a holistic understanding of the world. This approach creates a sense of belonging and deep respect for all cultures. Celebrating Cultural Days and Events Throughout the year, we honour significant cultural days and events. From themed weeks to community festivals, these celebrations immerse children in meaningful activities that highlight the importance of cultural milestones. Through discussions, creative projects, and participation in these events, children develop a deep appreciation for different heritages. Promoting Respectful Relationships Reconciliation is about building bridges of understanding. We create an environment where children learn to value diverse perspectives and practice empathy. Through role-playing, collaborative activities, and guided discussions, we teach the importance of kindness, understanding, and respect for all individuals. Encouraging Critical Thinking At our centre, we encourage children to think critically about cultural differences and historical contexts. Open discussions and age-appropriate activities invite them to ask questions and share their thoughts. This approach not only builds cognitive skills but also fosters compassion and empathy. Nurturing Environmental Awareness A connection to the environment is a vital part of cultural understanding. Through nature-based activities, gardening, and exploring local environments, children learn about sustainable practices and the importance of caring for the land. These activities instill respect for the planet and its cultural significance. Creating Safe Spaces for Sharing We understand the value of open dialogue. Our centre provides safe spaces where children feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences. These conversations empower children to express themselves and learn from one another, fostering confidence and mutual respect. Continuous Reflection and Growth Reconciliation is an ongoing commitment. At Creative Childcare, we regularly reflect on our practices, seek feedback from families and communities, and adapt our initiatives to remain impactful. This dedication ensures we continue to create an inclusive and respectful environment for everyone. If you'd like to learn more about Creative Childcares services you can contact us by calling 1300 002 929 , by email at contact@creativechildcare.com.au or by filling out our online form .
December 10, 2024
Childcare Nutrition: Smart Snacking & Healthy Bites for Growing Kids At the heart of every child’s day is the nourishment they need to grow, learn, and thrive. At our three centres, we see nutrition as more than just food on a plate; it’s our way of inspiring healthy habits, delighting curious taste buds, and nurturing growing bodies and minds. Here’s how we incorporate smart snacking and wholesome nourishment into our daily care. Wholesome Snacking Habits Snack time is a chance to fuel children’s bodies with delicious and nutritious food choices. We offer a variety of fresh fruits, crunchy vegetables, and whole-grain delights to help children develop a taste for foods that support their growth and energy needs. These small but meaningful choices lay the foundation for a balanced and healthy diet. Nutrient-Rich Finger Foods Healthy eating at our centres is always fun and engaging! We provide nutrient-packed finger foods, like colourful veggie sticks, cheese cubes, and whole-grain crackers, which are perfect for little hands. These bites encourage independence while delivering the essential vitamins and minerals children need to thrive. Hydration for Happy Bodies Staying hydrated is just as important as eating well. That’s why water takes centre stage in our daily routine. We encourage children to prioritise this healthy habit by taking regular sips throughout the day, supporting their focus, energy, and overall well-being. Balanced Meal Time Adventures Mealtime is more than just a break—it can be a whole new adventure for children! We thoughtfully prepare meals with a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats to provide the energy and nutrients children need to learn, play, and grow. Every bite is part of their journey toward a healthier future. Creative Presentation for Appetising Appeal Healthy foods are as exciting as they are nourishing at our centre. We create a rainbow of fruits, fun-shaped sandwiches, and vibrant veggie platters to make mealtime an engaging and joyful experience. When food looks as good as it tastes, little ones are eager to dig in and discover new flavours. Mindful Eating Practices We teach children to slow down and connect with their food. By encouraging them to savour each bite and listen to their hunger and fullness cues, we help them foster a positive relationship with food that can last a lifetime. Allergen Awareness Creating a safe and inclusive environment is a top priority for us. We are attentive to food allergies and dietary restrictions, ensuring every child feels included and cared for during meals. This commitment to safety helps all children enjoy their food with confidence and joy. Educating Young Palates Mealtime is also a moment of discovery at our centre. Through fun activities and simple lessons, we teach children about different food groups, the benefits of healthy eating, and how food fuels their amazing bodies. These early lessons empower them to make thoughtful choices as they grow. Snack-Time Variety We believe variety is essential for growing palates! By offering an array of flavors and textures, we expand children’s taste preferences and help them develop an appreciation for different foods. Snack time is an exciting adventure full of new discoveries. Collaboration with Families We know that a child’s nutrition journey is most successful when home and childcare work together. That’s why we maintain open communication with families to ensure consistency and understanding of dietary preferences or restrictions. This partnership creates a seamless and supportive approach to healthy eating. At Creative Childcare, nutrition is about more than feeding young bodies; it’s about sparking joy, building confidence, and creating a foundation for lifelong healthy habits. Through thoughtful choices, creative presentations, and a nurturing environment, we empower children to thrive—one bite at a time. If you'd like to learn more about Creative Childcares services you can contact us by calling 1300 002 929 , by email at contact@creativechildcare.com.au or by filling out our online form .
Essential Skills for Childcare, School Readiness in Childcare, Skills in Childcare
By Creative Childcare November 13, 2024
As children embark on the exciting journey into formal education, childcare becomes the fertile ground where the seeds of school readiness are sown. In this exploration, we delve into the vibrant landscape of childcare, where young minds are not only nurtured but also equipped with the foundational skills essential for a seamless transition into the classroom.
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