Therapy for Caregivers for Screen Time

(BEE Trial)

This trial tests a virtual therapy program called Brief-RSU, designed for caregivers of preschool children, to help reduce screen time used for calming or entertaining kids. Reducing screen time may help children better manage their emotions and boredom. Participants will join three hour-long group therapy sessions online. This trial suits caregivers who use screen time to regulate their child's emotions and have children aged 30 to 54 months. As an unphased trial, it offers caregivers a unique opportunity to explore innovative strategies for managing their child's screen time and emotional regulation.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on therapy for caregivers, so it's unlikely that medication changes are required.

Research has shown that reducing screen time can benefit young children's growth. This trial offers a short, online program for caregivers, and past studies suggest that managing screen use can be helpful. For example, children with supervised screen time often experience fewer sleep and eye issues. Additionally, when caregivers engage with children during screen time, it can enhance thinking and social skills.

Researchers are excited about the Brief-RSU therapy for caregivers managing screen time because it offers a unique, virtual group therapy approach. Unlike traditional methods, which often rely on individual counseling or self-help guides, this treatment involves just three sessions that are conducted online, making it accessible and convenient for busy caregivers. The group setting fosters a sense of community and shared learning, which can enhance motivation and adherence to screen time guidelines. This innovative format could provide quicker, more flexible support compared to standard options.

Research has shown that programs designed to reduce screen time in young children can be effective. This trial will evaluate the effectiveness of the Brief-RSU intervention, a 3-session, virtual group therapy for caregivers. One study that examined various programs found that preschoolers who participated spent less time on screens than those who did not. These programs also help parents feel more skilled and confident in managing their children's screen use. Reducing screen time can improve children's language, thinking, and emotional skills. Overall, these efforts have small but positive effects on reducing screen time, which is linked to better outcomes in child development.²⁶⁷⁸⁹