Be clear with expectations, schedules, and limits
Kids need structure and stability. It will be easier for them to adapt to screen time limits if you as the parent are consistent, clear, and communicative about what those limits are. Establish a schedule that works for both you and your child — something that everyone can follow and stick to. “Parents need to become more involved when kids routinely overdo screen time or engage in inappropriate screenplay. Scheduling access to recreational screen time works well for many families — recommended amounts of time range from one to two hours of recreational screen time per day,” advises Randy Kulman, Ph.D and writer for PsychologyToday.com.
Apps can be a useful aid, with parental restriction settings that allow you to enforce time limits. You can designate areas where tech isn’t allowed, like your kids’ rooms. Keeping tech out of their rooms can encourage a sense of calm in the bedroom and provide an opportunity to do something else — like play with toys, read, or just let their imagination run wild. Besides, screens right before bed are not conducive to a good night’s sleep for kids (or adults, either).
Be a good example and stay involved
Actions speak volumes, often more effectively than words. If you are harping about screen limits for your child, but you are on your devices 24/7, your youngster may balk at your restrictions. It is not only about time limits, though. You will also want to show your kid how to use screen time responsibly, especially when it comes to social media, advises the staff at MayoClinic.org.
“Consider that your child is watching you for cues on when it’s OK to use screens and how to use them. You’ll likely need to continue to guide, manage and monitor your child’s use of screens and media as he or she grows. But by developing household rules — and revisiting them as your child grows — you can help ensure a safe experience,” adds the staff at MayoClinic.org.
Create alternative entertainment options
Your kid may gravitate toward screen time because it’s so entertaining. There are so many apps, games, and videos to explore that the content seems limitless! If they don’t like one thing, there is always something better waiting for them with a simple click. If you want your kids to willingly put down their screen, you may have to entice them with something equally entertaining, challenging, or fun. Give them options to consider that perhaps they wouldn’t think of because they are too distraught about having to shut down their device. You can institute family time, reading time, or outdoor play.
“Encourage kids to take walks, ride bikes, play outside, or play indoor active games instead of using their screens. Playing with them is often a big draw. You might also work with them to create a list of non-screen activities they enjoy,” says Catherine Holecko, writer for VerywellFamily.com.
Screens are an essential part of today’s tech-driven world. You can help manage the time your kid spends on a screen, though. Be clear with limits. Be involved with their tech choices. Be a good tech user, and offer engaging opportunities in the real world that rival the appeal, enjoyment, and challenge of those found in the virtual world.