A picture book to prompt healthy screen time discussion

Our screen habits can affect so many areas of our life and whether we’re a parent, carer or school teacher, we want kids to grow up healthy, happy and with great relationships. Along with setting realistic and healthy boundaries, it’s also important for children to understand some of the reasons for these limits. But how can you begin light discussions about healthy screen time habits with your kids?

Get informed on the effects of screen time

Get informed on the facts and recommendations by trusted organisations. There are plenty of good resources online to help you from videos to articles such as the NSW Government guidelines which provides some guidance on the amount of screen time based on age. Also, don’t forget the positive effects of screen time.

How to start a conversation about screen time

Most kids don’t want to hear us nag them to limit their screen time. They just want to have fun and keep on having fun. They usually don’t understand the natural consequences of having too much. From increased risk of myopia to a correlation with anxiety and depression, there are many reasons to set sensible limits. So, find ways to help them understand. Find a resource to help start that conversation.

Moxie vs Cat Memes: A resource for light discussion

That’s what Moxie vs Cat Memes is intended to do. It’s a fun and entertaining way to explore how constant focus on screens can impact the relationships we have with those we love. Moxie is a cute little dog who just wants cuddles from her owner, Wally. But Wally is too busy watching cat memes. Poor Moxie tries everything she can think of to get his attention. But no matter what she tries, Moxie can’t get Wally’s eyes off the screen.

Until . . . she comes up with a very clever idea that might just work to remind Wally that she’s his special girl, worthy of his love and attention.

After reading the story, parents and carers can ask questions like the ones in the Moxie vs Cat Memes teacher’s notes

• How does Moxie feel when Wally is constantly distracted by his phone?
• What does Moxie do to try and get Wally’s attention?
• After Moxie pulls Wally away from the screen, how does Wally feel about choosing to
  spend his whole day on his screen?
• How do you think Moxie feels when Wally decides to spend the next day with her?
• What is more important? The people and pets around us? Or spending all day on our
  screens?
• How can we organise our day so that we can enjoy some screen time but also allow lots
  of time with the people and pets we love?

Enjoy this fun picture book about healthy screen time habits and I hope it brings people closer together and that it’s a fun, enjoyable story that you all love!