The Impact of Screen Time on Children with Autism: Insights for Parents

Screen time can have significant effects on people of all ages—adults, teens, and children alike. For children with autism, the implications may be even more profound. Parents, often with the best intentions, may allow their child to use electronic devices for various reasons, such as:

• Soothing Effect: When a child is distressed, electronic devices like tablets or phones can help calm them by providing access to favourite games or videos.

• Parental Respite: Devices can keep children engaged, allowing parents to manage household tasks, care for siblings, or take a well-deserved break.

• Perceived Educational Value: Some apps and games are marketed as educational tools, which can lead parents to believe they support their child’s development.

While these motivations are understandable, parents should proceed carefully. Research highlights the adverse effects of excessive screen time on neurotypical children, but children with autism may face even greater challenges. Some of the potential negative impacts include:

• Overstimulation and Emotional Dysregulation: Children with autism are often sensitive to various stimuli, including electronic devices, which can lead to overstimulation and difficulty managing emotions.

• Sleep Disruption: Over half of children with autism experience chronic sleep issues. The blue light emitted by screens can suppress melatonin production and further disrupt sleep patterns.

• Reduced Social Learning: Screen time can hinder the development of essential skills such as reading social cues, empathy, and effective communication.

• Increased Risk of Screen Addiction: Children with autism may become dependent on screens more quickly than their neurotypical peers.

Strategies for Managing Screen Time

To help minimize these challenges, parents can adopt practical strategies to reduce and regulate screen use:

1. Gradual Reduction: Slowly decrease the amount of time spent on screens to make the transition manageable.

2. Introduce Alternative Activities: Create opportunities for non-screen-based activities and establish certain times when screen use is not allowed.

3. Set a Schedule: Develop a daily plan for screen time and stick to it.

4. Use Timers: Set timers to limit the duration of screen use.

5. Designate Screen-Available Times: Allocate specific periods, such as during meal preparation or when assisting siblings, for screen use.

6. Incorporate Rewards: Use limited screen time as an incentive for completing less enjoyable tasks, like tidying up toys.

7. Engage During Screen Time: Periodically join your child during their screen activities to promote interaction and reinforce learning.

8. End Screen Time Before Bed: Stop screen use at least 30 minutes before bedtime to encourage better sleep.

Completely eliminating screen time may not be practical—or necessary. With thoughtful planning, clear boundaries, and active monitoring, parents can allow their children to enjoy screen time while minimizing its potential drawbacks.

For more information on how to support your autistic child, contact Kids Therapy Clinics Australia on 1300 877 789 or at www.kidstherapyclinics.com.au,  we’re happy to help!