Let’s face it… screens are here to stay. In today’s world, it is nearly impossible to completely avoid technology and screens. Oftentimes, the concept of “screen time” carries a negative connotation, causing parents to become concerned about how to limit and restrict technology. However, with computers and tablets becoming more commonly used, even in schools, technology is now an integral part of our society. This blog aims to provide practical tips and insights into creating a healthy and balanced outlook on screens for families.
Lay the Groundwork
Before setting expectations and creating rules, it is imperative that children understand the reasoning behind limiting and structuring screen time. As a family, discuss the benefits of engaging in activities outside of technology, whether that be sports, board games, cooking, arts and crafts, yoga, dancing, or going to the park. A balanced approach to screen time can lead to improved sleep, better academic performance, and enhanced social skills. Helping children understand the “why” behind technology limitations may make them more receptive to these boundaries.
Creating Guidelines
Whether termed “guidelines” or “rules,” it is important to make all expectations surrounding screen time concise, clear, and specific. For younger children, keep expectations very clear and discuss the rules with them. If opting for a daily time limit, younger children might benefit from a timer to help them understand how much time they have for playing tablet games or watching TV. For older kids, collaborate to establish rules, write them down, and have everyone sign an agreement. Make clear distinctions for school days, weekends, and holidays. Revisit these guidelines every few months to adjust as needed.
Incorporate Routines
Children of all ages thrive on routine. The more screen time is incorporated into a routine, the easier it will be to manage. For instance, consider allowing screen time every day during snack time after school for 30 minutes. Alternatively, screen time could be permitted only after completing a certain amount of homework for the day. Different routines work best for different children, so families need to work together to discuss and find what fits into their daily lives.
Make Screen time Safe
Another paramount concern for parents involves the safety of technology, particularly when it comes to the internet and social media. Most internet browsers, smart TVs, etc., have specific parental controls that can be set up. Smartphones and tablets also typically have built-in settings and apps to block and restrict unwanted content. Explore Verywell Family's list of great parental control apps.
Other Tips and Insights
Consider these additional tips while deciding how to navigate screens and technology in the household:
Model correct screen time usage for children: Be aware of your screen time habits, such as having the TV on in the background or scrolling social media on your phones.
Establish “tech-free” zones or times: Designate areas or times within the house where screens are off-limits, like kids' bedrooms or dinnertime. Plan specific family “unplug” times, perhaps an hour before bedtime, a few hours each weekend, or on the way to school each day.
Offer choices: Overcome resistance to giving up screen time by providing choices. Children could choose between tablet time or TV time that day or between two different educational games.
With technology being an unavoidable aspect of modern society, nurturing a healthy and structured relationship with screens is of the utmost importance. As parents, it's easy to stress over screen time and its impacts on children. By creating a balanced screen time routine, children can learn to positively incorporate technology into their lives.
Written by Laine J.