Why Too Much Sitting and Screen Time Isn’t Great (And How to Fix It!)

Do you also like watching shows, playing video games, or using a tablet? That’s fun sometimes, but sitting and staring at screens too much can make your body feel tired, your mood feel off, and even mess with your sleep. Let’s find out why and how to stay healthy!

What Does Sitting and Screen Time Mean?

• Sitting too much: This happens when you don’t move for a long time. Think about it, that happens when  you watch TV, play games, or do homework.

• Screen time: This is any time spent looking at a screen—on a phone, tablet, or computer.

Screens can be awesome, but too much time with them can lead to problems.

Do Us Kids Sit Too Much?

Think about your day. Do you sit in class? Then at lunch? And then at home with a screen? Many of us spend more than 7 hours sitting each day—and a lot of that time is on screens! Moving your body is super important for growing strong and staying happy.

What Happens If You Sit or Use Screens Too Much?

For Your Body:

• Ouch! Sitting for too long can make your neck, back, or shoulders hurt.

• Feeling tired: Not moving much can make you feel sluggish, much like a hibernating bear

• Health risks: Sitting a lot now could lead to health problems as you get older.

For Your Mind:

• Stress: Social media or videos can sometimes make you feel nervous or sad.

• Hard to sleep: Using screens before bed will mess with your sleep, it can keep you awake longer. You will feel groggy and tired in the mornings.

For Your Friendships:

• Less fun with others: Too much screen time means less time to play or talk with friends and family.

Why Are Breaks Important?

Moving your body keeps you strong, happy, and focused. Experts say you should have no more than 2 hours of screen time for fun each day and you must take a movement break every 30–60 minutes.

Easy Ways to Move More:

• Stretch and wiggle: Stand up and stretch or dance every 30 minutes.

• Active TV time: Do jumping jacks or march in place during commercials.

• Play outside: Ride your bike, play tag, or kick a ball after school.

What Does a Healthy Day Look Like?

• Movement breaks: Get up and move during homework or screen time.

• Different activities: Walk, clean your room, run, or play sports.

• Smart screen time: Use screens to learn or connect, but also enjoy time unplugged.

How Screen Time Affects You?

What Can You Do Today?

• Think: How much time do you spend sitting or on screens? How about on weekends?

• Try: Stand up while doing homework or play outside after school.

Little changes like these can make you feel better, sleep better, and have way more fun. So let’s stand up, sit less, and move more!