Hillier, A. (2008)
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Retrieved October 22, 2008
Abstract:
Technology has been a target, rather than an ally, in the battle against childhood obesity. Parents are advised to keep television sets out of their children’s bedroom, turn the TV off during meals, and monitor and limit children’s “screen time”- those hours spent each day in front of computers, TV, or video games. The time children spend glued to these media devices is time they are not outside playing and being physically active. Perhaps even worse, these technologies are vehicles for the junk food industry’s messages, providing direct access to children. And most of these media are now mobile, so “screen time” can happen anywhere.
It’s tempting to think that technology is the problem and that limiting or removing its influence on children is the answer. But could technology be part of the solution, helping us to steer children toward healthy eating and physical activity?