MICHAEL SMITH, MD:
The average American teenager
spends about nine hours
every single day on media.
That includes TV, computers,
and phones.
It doesn't include time spent
doing homework on a computer
or a tablet.
Now that's an incredible amount
of time.
So how can you help your teen
get away from the screen?
Set limits.
Don't be afraid to say no.
Simple rules like no texting
until you finish homework
or no phones during dinner
can go a long way.
Help them make good choices.
Some media can be beneficial.
Find apps that will help them
exercise or inspire
their creativity.
Encourage them to focus on one
thing at a time.
It's harder to do homework
when they're getting texts
at the same time.
Don't let them try to multitask
with a screen.
Lead by example.
Put your phone down and enjoy
family time.
That will speak louder
than anything you tell them
to do.
For WebMD, I'm Dr. Michael
Smith.
