Screen Time Over: How to Tell Your Kids It's Time to Unplug

The return to school presents a new challenge for parents: With the long summer vacation over and kids having had a fair amount of screen time, it's time for parents to announce a significant reduction. Sure, there are still online lessons at some schools (strikes and such), and online friends and games (all kosher, of course) also impact screen time. But over recent years, experts have suggested three methods to encourage kids to reduce those long hours in front of the screen during their free time.

Clear Schedule and Activity Time
Setting clear screen time schedules is key to reducing excessive screen use. You can create a daily schedule with designated times for screen use, such as online homework, socializing with friends, or games. It's important to set clear boundaries and discuss with the kids the importance of maintaining them. Also, set frequent breaks to prevent eye strain and encourage physical activity.

Alternative Activities off the Screen
Many parents find that attractive alternatives help limit screen time. Offer kids a variety of activities such as sports, reading, crafting, or nature walks. When kids enjoy quality time away from screens, they're less inclined to return to them. You can also include family time, like board games, cooking together, or family outings, to enhance time quality and strengthen family bonds.

Limiting Screen Time
Today, there are many tools and apps that help parents monitor and limit their children's screen time. These apps allow setting predetermined times for device usage, blocking access to certain websites, or sending alerts when it's time to stop. Choosing the right app and setting the rules with the kids in advance will help maintain the right balance.

It can be said that the return to school offers an excellent opportunity to inform kids about a significant cutback in their hours. This will help them maintain a healthy balance and ensure they enjoy an enriching educational and social experience.