Screen Time Showdown: Passive vs Interactive Digital Downtime

As a second part to the last blog about screen time: a lot of the quality & content can be expanded to passive and interactive screen time. These terms are used to differentiate between different types of engagement with electronic screens, such as smartphones, tablets, computers, video games, and television. Here's a breakdown of each:
    Passive Screen Time:
    Involves activities where the user is primarily consuming content without much interaction or engagement.
    Examples include watching TV shows, online videos or movies, and reading articles online.
    Passive screen time often involves minimal cognitive or physical activity on the part of the user.
    Interactive Screen Time:
    Involves activities where the user actively engages with the content or device, often requiring input or participation.
    Examples include playing educational video games, chatting with friends whether through a game or video chat, or creating digital content.
    Interactive screen time typically requires more cognitive and physical involvement compared to passive screen time.


The distinction between passive and interactive screen time is important because they can have different effects on individuals, especially children's development. While both types of screen time can have benefits and drawbacks, interactive screen time is often considered more beneficial as it can stimulate cognitive functions, encourage problem-solving skills, and foster creativity. However, excessive interactive screen time can also lead to issues such as decreased physical activity and potential social isolation if not balanced properly.
As a pre- parent who always thought screen time would never happen, then quarantine happened, my rules and views of what we would use the screens for had to change. Especially when my remote-learning Kindergarten got a Chromebook all his own.  Television has become the more passive time when we watch shows and movies together. The computer is used for school work and preschool games. While the phone serves for learning skills and helping with activities like drawing, building Legos, apps associated with interactive toys, AR reading,  or new tricks for the Rubik’s cube. There is no right or wrong way to lean in to this downtime because all children and families use technology the best way it fits their needs. 


Most importantly, Happy Mother’s Day to all of our Tech Moms.