This video story reported and produced by Chloe Benjamin. The anchor is Ginette Troya.
Since the start of the pandemic, kids have been glued to their phones, increasing their screen time up 50 percent, causing many health problems such as anxiety, depression and insomnia.
Researchers from the University of British Columbia, in a study published in the journal Preventive Medicine, found that spending less than two hours per day of recreational screen time (such as browsing the internet, playing video games, and using social media) was associated with higher levels of life satisfaction and optimism, and lower levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms.
“We do know that some forms of screen time can be beneficial, like maintaining connections with friends and family members online if we cannot see them in person, but there are other types of screen time that can be quite harmful,” said Eva Oberle, the study’s lead author.
A survey conducted by data intelligence firm Morning Consult found that 70% of parents said their kids spend at least four hours a day on their screens.
Kids are spending most of their time on games, which is the most prevalent type of content children are interacting with. YouTube and Netflix were the two most popular entertainment platforms among all age groups.
To decrease screen time, parents should involve their kids in more outdoor activities and an after-school program called E.A.G.L.E.S is helping parents with just that.
E.A.G.L.E.S stands for Exciting After-school Games and Lessons in Exercise and Skateboarding. The program is housed at Eagle Skate Park, one of the most extensive facilities in all Florida that features nearly 27,000 square feet of ramps, rails, street obstacles and a bowl.
The skate park is located in Cape Coral, right next to the William Austen Youth Center that supplies kids with free school busses so the parents won’t have to worry about transportation.
According to a study conducted by Instinct Laboratory and Flo Skatepark, involvement in skateboarding can reduce stress, increase confidence and provide escapism.
“I got inspired by all the other skaters, now I’m pretty good,” said Eagle member Mason McDermott.
E.A.G.L.E.S is a fully supervised after-school program at the skate park that runs Monday through Friday from 2-6 p.m. during the regular school year. Participants ages 8+ can enjoy homework assistance, group games and recreational activities.
This program is an excellent way for parents to get their kids off their screens and help them get healthy and active.
