MI HR0247

Declares April 30-May 6, 2012, as Screen-Free Week in Michigan to encourage reducing dependence on television, video games, computers, and hand-held devices.

Notes that preschool children spend an average of 32 hours per week with screen media and cites American Academy of Pediatrics recommendation of no screen time for children under 2 and less than 2 hours daily for older children.

Identifies health and developmental concerns associated with excessive screen time including childhood obesity, sleep disturbances, attention span issues, academic failure, and poor dietary habits.

Highlights research demonstrating benefits of reduced screen time such as improved academic performance, healthier lifestyles, and prevention of behavioral problems.