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Managing screen time during coronavirus closures

Has coronavirus made screen time limits obsolete?
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With so many people self quarantining or working and learning at home, it might mean an overload of screen time.

Common-Sense-Media does a lot of work on the topic of kids and technology.

"Fitness and well-being, in general, are something we should all be thinking about," said Liz Kline, Education vice president at Common Sense.

They say families need to pay attention to how much time kids are spending in front of screens, whether it's educational or entertainment.

"Also, cherishing our family time while we have a little bit more of it," Kline said. "Have device-free dinners and have those device-free moments, because that kind of togetherness is what's going to get us through."

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends designating media-free times together.

We're already spending, on average, 11 hours a day in front of a screen, according to Scripps Medical research.

The effects are clear. It can damage several parts of the brain.

It can cause strain and pain on the eyes, upper body, and hands.

It can disrupt sleep, and can also contribute to isolation and obesity.

There is no recommended screen time for adults.