How To Reduce Screen Time – 7 Secret Strategies
Want to know how to reduce screen time? Here’s exactly how to limit screen time effectively with your kids.
Let’s chat about how to reduce screen time.
If you’re raising kids today, you’ve probably wondered how to limit the amount of time your children spend using electronic devices.
I mean here’s the thing: our children have been exposed to technological gadgets practically from birth.
Because it is so ingrained in their daily life (they probably see the adults around them using their devices ALL THE TIME) separating them from their electronics can seem to be a tall order.
However, it is possible my friend.
Even though you may have challenges getting your kids to put down their tech toys, when you set boundaries and model appropriate use of these tools, you’re actually doing your kids a real favor in terms of their future.
The jury is still out in terms of long-term effects of continuous computer use on eyes and overall health but that doesn’t mean most of us are comfortable with unlimited access to these devices.
The reality is that children engaging in extended periods of sedentary behaviors throughout childhood can experience social struggles and weight gain.
Therefore, moderation is the key for EVERYTHING, devices included.
Here are some useful strategies you can try to establish wise limits on your kids’ use of technology:
HOW TO REDUCE SCREEN TIME
TIP # 1 – Accept technology as important.
Your kids are being exposed to new technologies at school and encouraged to use computers and other devices to learn.
They connect with their friends and make sense of their worlds through computers and cell phones.
Given their tech-heavy environments, of course your kids are enamored with all things electronic.
There is no use fighting the fact that they are part of our daily life, especially if they are expected to use these devices at school.
Our kids started using their iPads at school as part of a BYODD program (Bring Your Own Digital Device) in year four so it was nearly impossible to say they couldn’t use their devices at all from that point forward.
HOW TO REDUCE SCREEN TIME
TIP # 2 – Avoid speaking negatively about gadgets.
Using the “technique” of talking negatively can backfire and result in some children actually gravitating more strongly toward technology.
Remember that some use of electronics does teach them skills they’ll need as adults navigating the information age.
I mean, I can’t really be a hypocrite myself can I?
I use my own phone to do personal banking, check and respond to emails, check my website analytics and take notes for future blog posts.
I can’t thank my phone enough for allowing me to do these things whilst on the run, rather than having to wait until I get home and to my laptop.
HOW TO REDUCE SCREEN TIME
TIP # 3 – Talk about boundaries.
Work toward being on the same page with your spouse, partner, or ex-spouse regarding any house rules about the use of electronics.
If you and your partner aren’t in agreement over how much time your kids should be spending on their devices, try discussing this subject when the kids aren’t around.
Then you’ll provide a unified front when your child inevitably tries asking you for the extra hour of video games that your partner won’t allow.
HOW TO REDUCE SCREEN TIME
TIP # 4 – Set limits early on.
The earlier in your children’s lives you decide how to manage technology use, the easier things will be.
Children as young as two or three are already capable of manipulating iPads, cell phones and computers to play educational games and do art.
However you still may wish to set limits so do some advance planning for boundaries.
HOW TO REDUCE SCREEN TIME
TIP # 5 – Be clear about your agreed-on limits.
Limits on technology can be set in a number of ways: when the child can use the technology, how long the gadget can be used (each episode of use), and whether the technology can be taken out of the house.
You are the adult and you get to decide!
HOW TO REDUCE SCREEN TIME
TIP # 6 – Avoid undesirable patterns.
How you expose your very young children to technology sets a pattern for them.
It’s best not to distract misbehaving kids with your iPad as this can be interpreted by them as being rewarded for negative behaviors.
- Instead, try something like, “As soon as you pick up all your toys, Mommy will let you play games on the computer for 15 minutes.” You definitely don’t want a punishment to involve time spent on their device.
HOW TO REDUCE SCREEN TIME
TIP # 7 – Keep it in perspective.
As with all things in life, encourage your child to partake in a wide range of activities.
Ensure that your child is involved in some physical activities, like organized sports or simply playing in the backyard with friends, you’re in a position to plan regularly scheduled family activities for the family.
Going out to dinner together or riding bikes on a Saturday morning are pretty cool family activities.
When you focus on showing your kids that life is made up of many things, not just playing with technology, they’ll learn not to cling too tightly to gadgets.
Yay to that!
So in the end, try not to freak out too much when your kids are attracted to tech devices (they will be!)
Instead try putting several of these strategies to work at your house so that you are still the one in control.
You’ll actually be pleasantly surprised to discover how well your children adjust to and stay within the technology limits you’ve set for them.
Establishing these boundaries teaches your children to do the same as they grow and mature.
As they learn to balance their own lives, they’ll develop into well-rounded, healthy adults, who have a healthy mindset and consideration to devices, without the side effects of serious tech addiction.
Ready to take the next step?
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Hey, I’m Frances Vidakovic! I help you live a richer, lighter life while pursuing dreamy goals – without sacrificing your soul, sanity or family life. 🫶🏻 Author. Coach. Course Creator. DON’T DIE UNHAPPY! → Wake up. Do what matters. Savour it all 🌷