Child Screen Time and Tics: What Parents Need to Know
As a parent, you may have noticed that your child's tics seem to worsen after long periods of screen time. Whether they’re watching TV, playing video games, or scrolling on a tablet, screen exposure can sometimes make tics more frequent or intense. But why does this happen, and what can you do about it? Let’s explore the connection between screen time and tics and how you can help your child find balance.
How Does Screen Time Affect Tics?
Screen time doesn’t directly cause tics, but it can contribute to tic frequency and severity for several reasons:
Reduced Body Awareness – When children are deeply engaged with a screen, they may not notice their premonitory urges (the feeling that a tic is about to happen). Once they disengage, tics may come in a rush.
Eye Strain & Fatigue – Excessive screen use can lead to eye strain, fatigue, and even headaches, which can make tics worse.
Overstimulation – Bright screens, fast-paced games, and constant notifications can overstimulate the brain, increasing stress and making tics more pronounced.
Lack of Physical Activity – Sitting for long periods reduces movement and relaxation, which can be important for regulating tics.
Stress and Anxiety – Some types of screen content, such as social media or intense video games, can trigger anxiety, which is a known factor in tic exacerbation. When children experience heightened emotions from screen interactions, their tics may become more frequent.
Disrupted Sleep Patterns – Excessive screen time, especially before bedtime, can interfere with sleep. Poor sleep is a significant factor in increasing tic severity, as fatigue makes it harder for the brain to regulate movement and impulses.
How Much Screen Time is Too Much?
There’s no universal answer, as every child responds differently. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests the following general guidelines:
Children aged 2-5: Limit screen time to one hour per day of high-quality programming.
Children aged 6 and older: Establish consistent limits that prioritize healthy habits, ensuring time for sleep, exercise, and social interaction.
Teens: Encourage balance rather than strict limits. Discuss mindful screen use and help them recognize when screen time is affecting their well-being.
What Can Parents Do?
If you’re concerned about screen time worsening your child’s tics, here are some practical strategies to try:
Encourage Breaks – Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, have your child look away from the screen for 20 seconds and focus on something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain and keeps their awareness sharp.
Balance Screen Time with Movement – Encourage outdoor play, stretching, or other physical activities to help regulate the nervous system. Even small movement breaks can make a big difference.
Use Blue Light Filters – Reduce screen brightness or use blue light filters to minimize eye strain. This is especially important in the evening to support healthy sleep patterns.
Monitor Stress Levels – If your child’s tics increase after gaming or social media use, consider setting limits and offering calming alternatives like reading, art, or mindfulness activities.
Create a Screen-Free Bedtime Routine – Avoid screens at least an hour before bed to support restful sleep. Instead, establish a bedtime routine that includes calming activities such as reading, listening to music, or deep breathing exercises.
Model Healthy Screen Use – Children learn by watching their parents. Try to set an example by balancing your own screen time with other activities.
Encourage Social Interaction – Spending too much time on screens can reduce real-world social engagement, which can sometimes contribute to anxiety or isolation. Encourage face-to-face interactions, playdates, or family game nights to help your child stay connected in meaningful ways.
The Takeaway
Screen time isn’t the enemy, but moderation is key. By being mindful of how screens impact your child’s tics and making small adjustments, you can help them feel more in control. Remember, every child is different—some may tolerate screen time well, while others are more sensitive to it.
If your child’s tics are significantly affecting their daily life, CBIT (Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics) can provide lasting strategies to help manage them. CBIT is a non-medication treatment that empowers children to recognize and manage their tics effectively, helping them gain confidence and control.
If you’d like to learn more or explore whether CBIT is right for your child, I’d love to support your family—book a session today!
