• Discuss with your student/child how much media they actually use each day. Include screen media (cell phones, computers, TV, videos, hand held games, etc) audio media (ipod etc)  and written media (magazines, books, newspapers etc.) Try to estimate an actual number of minutes per day. Ask the child if they are surprised by the number of minutes.
• Explain that although media can be a great way to learn, be entertained and to communicate, it is a ‘sedentary’ behaviour and it needs to be balanced with at least an equal amount of activity. Add up the total minutes a day that your student/ child is active. Compare the results with the previous results of media time. Surprised?
• Talk about some ways that they can increase their active time every day. Remind them that PLAY is one of the best ways to be active and besides that, it is FUN! Share some of the games that are simple, fun and active. (tag, hide and seek, skipping, obstacle course, follow the leader etc.)
• Discuss what is reasonable in terms of media use each day. (less than 2 hours) Draw up a schedule of how your student/ child would like to use their media time wisely and still leave lots of time for activity. Post the schedule on the fridge and use it as a reminder of the importance of making smart and balanced choices every day!

The key: Mutual understanding and shared solutions help kids to feel valued and included in important decisions.