10 Feb Balancing Technology Use in a Digital World – Our Top Tips for families raising Autistic children!
In today’s technology-driven world, screen time is often viewed as a double-edged sword for families raising autistic children. On one hand, devices can provide incredible opportunities for learning, communication, and even connection. Excessive or unregulated screen time can contribute to sleep difficulties, overstimulation, and a lack of engagement in other essential activities.
For parents grappling with the question, “Should I allow screen time or not?” The answer isn’t always straightforward. Instead of focusing on “yes” or “no,” the key is to find a balance that supports your child’s development while promoting overall well-being.
The Benefits of Screen Time for Autistic Children
Technology has opened up a new world for autistic children, offering benefits that were unimaginable just a few decades ago. For children who struggle with verbal communication, devices like tablets and communication apps can serve as a lifeline, helping them express their needs and interact with others.
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools have transformed how autistic children communicate, giving them a voice in situations where words might fail.
Beyond communication, screen time can foster increasingly essential skills in today’s world. Computer literacy and even introductory coding programs designed for children can unlock pathways to careers and hobbies in the tech field. These tools build cognitive skills like problem-solving and logical thinking and help children discover passions they may not otherwise explore.
For autistic children with specific interests, technology can provide a safe space to dive deeply into their areas of fascination, whether it’s learning about dinosaurs, creating digital art, or exploring educational games. These experiences can boost self-esteem, foster independence, and provide a sense of achievement.
The Drawbacks of Excessive Screen Time
However, as much as technology can enhance learning and communication, too much screen time comes with challenges. Excessive use can lead to overstimulation, especially for children hypersensitive to visual or auditory input. Bright screens, rapid movements, and constant notifications can overwhelm a child’s sensory system, making it harder for them to relax, focus, or transition to other activities.
Conversely, hypersensitive children may become so drawn to the sensory input provided by screens that they struggle to disengage. This can lead to long hours of screen use, limiting opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and other forms of learning.
Furthermore, excessive screen time has been linked to poor sleep, reduced attention spans, and difficulty regulating emotions. For families already navigating the complexities of autism, these challenges can create additional stress and disrupt daily routines.
The Importance of Balance
When it comes to technology, balance is essential. Too much of anything—no matter how beneficial—can have negative consequences, and screens are no exception. For autistic children, the goal isn’t to eliminate screen time but to create boundaries that allow for both the benefits of technology and the enrichment of non-digital activities.
Practical Strategies for Balancing Technology Use
- Establish daily screen time limits that work for your family. Screens should be allowed at specific times, such as after school or during a learning activity, but other parts of the day should be screen-free.
- Designate specific areas of the house, such as the bedroom or dining room, as screen-free zones. This will help reduce distractions and encourage engagement in other activities, such as family meals or quiet reading.
- Children often mimic the behavior they see. If you set aside your devices during family time, your child will likely follow suit.
- Provide engaging, screen-free activities that cater to your child’s interests, such as puzzles, sensory play, outdoor exploration, or arts and crafts. Consider sensory-friendly alternatives like weighted blankets or calming visual toys for hypersensitive children.
- When your child is using a device, ensure the content aligns with their developmental goals. Educational apps, communication tools, and structured games can provide value.
