Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Support

Screen Time & Sensory Processing Disorder

Children with sensory differences ... painting the world beautiful.

Screen Time & Sensory Processing Disorder

Jeanette Loftus

Everywhere you look today, you see a screen and we are all watching them. Some of us more than others but it can be particularly challenging for children with Sensory Processing Disorder because our children learn so much and there are endless benefits but this can have negative impacts on our children as well . Technology can be an incredible learning tool for our children and offer them many opportunities but the excessive screen time can at times make sensory processing disorder worse.

There are endless benefits for our children using screen time. Tablets and computers are excellent educational tools because they offer access to so many educational apps and games that promote learning. Our children can learn language, math, and problem-solving. There is a social connection on online platforms too that give children the ability to connect with friends and family.

Children who struggle with social anxiety may find it to be easier to socialize online than in person sometimes. There are times when parents have to limit screen time because the excessive screen time can overwhelm a child's senses and this can lead to increased anxiety, irritability or difficulty regulating their emotions. Too much screen time can cause sleeping issues and impact their sleep quality.

When a child is always online, the screen can cause your child to have difficulties with their focus and concentration. Screen time can decrease the amount of physical activity a child has throughout the day. Screen time can sometimes replace the time that a child would play outside and increase their risk of obesity.

It is important to find a balance that maximizes the benefits of screen time while minimizing the negative impacts it can have on our children. There are many strategies that parents can try to achieve these goals. Encourage play time with other children, schedule outside play and plan sensory activities.

When you schedule screen time, choose times for educational and social online activities but making time for essential activities. Using a tablet as a learning tool and not just for entertainment is important for children. Focus on educational apps and interactive games.

There are a lot of rewards to limiting screen time. When you limit a child's screen time, your child who has sensory processing disorder will reap the benefits. You will notice that your child has improved sensory regulation when you reduce their exposure to screens. This will help calm their nervous system.

When you increase your child's time for sensory play and social interaction with peers outside they will have better sleep. If you decrease screen time before bed, it promotes melatonin production and leads to better sleep quality. Your child will build stronger social skills while engaging in face to face social interactions.

Every child is different and their sensory needs will be different. It’s important to work with your child's occupational therapist to create a screen time schedule and strategies that are created just for your child.