WHO Offers School Year Routine Tips: Limit Screen Time, Boost Activity
As the new school year approaches, parents are advised to prepare a balanced daily routine for their children, including limited screen time and regular physical activity. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides guidelines to help maintain a healthy lifestyle for young students.
Parents should limit homework to 1.5-2 hours for younger students and up to 3-4 hours for older students, with regular breaks. They should also set a consistent routine that includes school and homework, physical activity, regular meals, age-appropriate sleep, and time for hobbies and socializing.
To ensure a smooth transition from summer to school routine, parents should start restoring the routine at the end of August. This includes setting consistent times for waking up, meals, homework, and outdoor activities. The WHO recommends no more than 2 hours of screen time per day for children and adolescents, excluding schoolwork. Children should engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day, including morning exercise and active games.
Parents play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy digital lifestyle. They should turn off devices 1 hour before bedtime to avoid disrupting melatonin production. Additionally, parents should encourage educational content, establish family digital rules, keep devices out of the bedroom, and use parental controls to limit screen time.
By following these guidelines, parents can help their children maintain a healthy lifestyle during the school year. A balanced routine, limited screen time, and regular physical activity can contribute to better academic performance and overall well-being.
