Managing Screen Time
Let’s talk about screen time. Managing your child’s screen time can be difficult, especially during the summer months when school and other activities are finished. Screens and technology will not be going away, your child will doubtless be using screens throughout their life. But how do you find a healthy balance? While you are considering your answer to this, we have a few ideas for you to consider.
from: elyson
Create Rules
Having rules for screen time can help your child understand your expectations. If you have really young children, try to keep these rules simple. Try involving the whole family in the conversation about rules, this will help your child feel more inclined to follow these rules. Keep in mind that these rules may need to be different for weekends, school days, or holidays. In addition, as your child grows and develops different interests, you may need to reevaluate your rules.
from: mom loves best
Curate Options
To ensure your child is having quality screen time you will want to preview programs, games, or apps. Find interactive options that can help engage your child, rather than only staring at the screen. Use parental controls to block or filter specific internet content.
from: getty images
Plan for Transitions
Your child might have a hard time when screen time ends, especially if they are having fun. Be ready with some ways to help your child transition. You can warn your child that screen time is almost over, so they can prepare to finish up. As your child is starting screen time, let them know how long they have. When screen time is ending, let your child have some time to stop and save what they are doing.
from: parents
Routines and Schedules
Children thrive with a routine, because they know what is expected of them and when to expect things. Having a schedule that includes screen time can help minimize fights and conflict over screen time. Scheduling screen time might look different from family to family. For example, you may decide that your child can have 30 minutes of screen time before dinner.
from: forbes
Communicate
Speaking with your child about why you have screen time limits, can help them understand your rules better. Engage with your child in a conversation about why some apps, games, or shows are okay for them to spend time doing, while others aren’t best to spend long periods of time doing. Teach your child appropriate behavior while using technology. This will become more and more important as your child gets older and begins to use technology and social media where they interact with others online. Continually having open communication with your child about technology use can help them be safe as they use technology.
from: very well family
Model Balanced and Healthy Screen Time
If your child sees you following your own screen time rules, they will be more likely to follow your lead. Breaks from technology, for yourself, has the added benefit of being intentional in the time you’re spending with your child.
As you are navigating what works best for you and your family, remember that not everything will work the first time, and sometimes you need to pivot and try something else. We recommend taking time to consider that not all forms of technology and screens are negative. Try to think in terms of everyone’s needs and your stress levels, this can help you set realistic limits that work for you and your family.