Children under ÿve should be physically active for at least 60 minutes a day to keep their bodies ÿt and healthy. It builds their bodies, minds and self-esteem.

Unfortunately, children are not being as active as they should. They are spending too much time using screen technology: tablets, smartphones, computers, handheld video games, and of course, TV. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting children’s total screen time to no more than 1 to 2 hours per day. For children younger than 2, no screen time at all.

Here are some tips to help you limit screen time:

1. Be a role model! Limit your screen time, too.
2. Do not allow a TV or computer in your child’s room. 
3. Turn o˜ any screens during meal time or quality time. 
4. If your child is already “hooked on screens,” try reducing the number of hours of screen time slowly over a period of time. 
5. Keep track of time to limit the use of screen technology. 
6. Help your children make a list of fun activities that do not require the use of a screen. 
7. Have the children pick an activity from the list when their screen time is used up. 
8. Encourage them to go outside and play, ride a bike, jump rope, walk the dog, play hopscotch, or hula-hoop, etc.