The sad truth and reality is that screens are everywhere. Tablets, phones, laptops, TVs… they seem to have taken over the house. For parents, it isn’t as simple as setting a timer and calling it a day. Between online schooling, homework, and those YouTube rabbit holes kids get sucked into, it can be a battle. But it doesn’t have to be a battle at all. With the right strategy, screen time can be a balanced mix of education and enjoyment, not an all-or-nothing situation.
Set Boundaries (Without the Breakdown)
Kids live by consistency. One day, you let them watch cartoons for hours; the next, you turn it off in the middle of the show and watch for the backlash. Instead of screen time being a guessing game, create a pattern for your family. Perhaps it’s 30 minutes after homework or an hour on the weekends. Whatever the rule, stick to it.
Make Screen Time Earned, Not Expected
In other words, instead of screens being the norm, make them something kids have to work for. Finished with chores? Great! Finished with reading time? Go for it. The goal is to make screen time a reward, not the norm.
The Quality Over Quantity Principle
All screen time is not created equal. A big difference exists between viewing back-to-back cartoons and playing an interactive learning program. If screen time is something you’re going to allow, focus on content that actually benefits your child. Learning programs like ABCmouse, Duolingo, or Prodigy can be enjoyable while still giving kids the screen time they crave.
Co-view with Engage
If you want to know what your child is watching or playing, watch with them. Not only will it help you learn more about the content, but it will also create an outlet for having meaningful discussions with your child. Ask questions, take an interest, and, if you can, join in with them.
Create Tech-Free Zones
There are spaces that should remain sacred. Dinner tables, bedrooms, and game nights with the family do not require the distraction of screens. Placing these as screen-free spaces reinforces the notion that not all the time requires a screen.
Model the Behavior You Desire
Kids learn through copying. So, if you’re constantly swiping through your phone, kids will assume it’s the standard. If you’re in the process of getting them to scale back screen time, you’ll have to be the example. Set your limits and monitor how often you reach for a device.
Knowing When to Bend the Rules
Every once in a while, you just need a break. Whether it is a long road trip or a little alone time while cooking dinner, sometimes added screen time is the most convenient option. And it is okay. The key is just to make it the exception, not the rule.
The Hidden Costs of Learning Apps
Parents utilize digital education platforms to engage their kids, but these are not necessarily free. Many charge monthly subscription fees or an upfront payment for premium material. A few also have features such as telemedicine payment processing to provide other healthcare-based offerings, such as online sessions for children in need of extra support. If you’re paying for education apps, be sure to check the costs and whether or not they really add any benefit.
Finding the balance that works for your family
Screen time does not necessarily have to be a struggle. With defined expectations, excellent content, and a little flexibility, it can be used as a tool for education and enjoyment rather than controlling your child’s life.
This post was submitted by Simone Devonshire.
