In today’s digital age, screens are an integral part of daily life, but managing screen time for children can be a challenge for many parents. Excessive screen time has been linked to various issues, including poor sleep, decreased physical activity, and even negative effects on mental health. Fortunately, there are a variety of resources available to help parents guide their kids towards healthier screen habits.
1. Educational Websites and Apps
Several websites and apps are designed to help parents monitor and manage screen time effectively. Tools like Circle Home Plus and Qustodio allow parents to set limits on screen time, monitor usage, and even filter content. These apps can be a good starting point for creating a more balanced digital environment at home. Even some home internet service providers have tools to help you shut down internet access to specific devices at a certain time. I personally have Xfinity home internet and use many of the tools in their Parent Hub and home app.
2. Books on Screen Time Management
Will Smith once said:
QuoteThere have been gazillions of people that have lived before all of us. There's no new problem you could have--with your parents, with school, with a bully. There's no new problem that someone hasn't already had and written about it in a book.
And that's true for learning how to free our children from screens! Books can offer deeper insights and practical strategies for managing screen time. Some recommended reads include:
- Reset Your Child's Brain: A Four-Week Plan to End Meltdowns, Raise Grades, and Boost Social Skills by Reversing the Effects of Electronic Screen-Time by Dr. Victoria Dunckley: This book delves into the science behind screen time and offers actionable strategies and a four-week plan.
- The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in Its Proper Place by Andy Crouch: This book provides steps to making conscientious choices about technology as a family.
3. Online Parenting Communities
Connecting with other parents who are facing similar challenges can provide support, ideas, and a reminder that we are not alone in our parenting experiences. It's no secret that NPN is a great resource for parents but there are a plethora of additional resources like Common Sense Media, which provides resources on managing screen time and promoting digital well-being.
4. Professional Guidance
Sometimes, professional advice can be invaluable. Child psychologists and family therapists can offer personalized strategies for managing screen time and addressing any underlying issues at a level that is more specific to your needs. Here are a few additional professional resources that can help:
- American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): Provides guidelines on screen time and offers resources for parents to help balance digital media use.
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Offers information on how excessive screen time can affect mental health and provides guidance for parents.
5. Family Activities and Alternatives
Engaging in screen-free activities can help children develop a healthy balance and see just how much fun they are missing out on in the real world!
We are excited to launch Screenless Family Playdates! These are playdates for older children that are dedicated to learning something new, exploring a new school or space, and taking a much needed break from screens. Click here to learn more about our upcoming playdate on October 12, 2024.
Additional resources for finding screen-free activities include:
- The Family Dinner Project: Provides ideas and resources for family activities that encourage face-to-face interaction and can be a great alternative to screen time.
- Outdoor Family: Offers suggestions for outdoor activities that can replace screen time and help kids stay active and engaged with nature. Even in Chicago!
Managing screen time is an ongoing process that requires patience and consistency. By leveraging educational tools, seeking professional advice, engaging with parenting communities, and exploring screen-free activities, parents can help their children develop healthier digital habits. Balancing screen time with other activities not only supports better physical and mental health but also strengthens family relationships and enriches children's lives.
