Raising Kids in a Digital Age: How To Navigate Screentime
As a mom of two, I completely understand the struggle of managing screen time with our kids. Screens are everywhere, and they can feel like lifesavers when you need a break or time to get things done. But with all the research out there about how too much screen time can impact our kids’ development—affecting everything from their sleep to their attention span—it’s clear that finding a healthy balance is key.
Here’s how I approach screen time with my kids:
Set Clear Limits
We set age-appropriate screen time limits, especially during the school year. For younger kids like Noa, that might mean no more than an hour of screen time a day, while older kids like Harper may get a bit more. This helps kids understand boundaries and makes it easier to manage. In our family, we keep mealtimes and before bed screen-free to ensure that screens aren’t taking over important family moments or disrupting sleep!
Choose Quality Over Quantity
Not all screen time is bad! I focus on making sure the time they do spend on screens is productive. There are so many great educational apps and programs that can engage our kids and actually help them learn!
Co-Watch & Co-Play
One of the best ways I’ve found to manage screen time is by being actively involved in what my kids are doing. Whenever I can, I’ll co-watch shows or co-play games with them. This allows me to monitor what they’re consuming and turns screen time into a bonding experience.
Create Screen-Free Zones and Times
It’s easy for screens to take over our daily routines if we’re not careful. In our home, we’ve created designated screen-free zones—like the dinner table—and we stick to screen-free times, like during family meals or right before bed. These simple changes help us all stay more connected and present with each other!
Model Healthy Digital Habits
Let’s be real—our kids are always watching us! If I’m glued to my phone during family time, it sends the message that it’s okay for them to be absorbed in their devices too. That’s why I’ve made a conscious effort to put my phone away during key moments, like meals or when we’re having conversations.
Encourage Offline Activities
We’re lucky to live in a world full of tech, but I also make sure to create plenty of opportunities for offline activities. Both my girls are signed up in extracurricular activities, like soccer and swimming and this keeps them very busy. Also, we are blessed to live in a community where all our neighbours are outside playing everyday after school and on weekends. Additionally, we really enjoy going on family walks together! These non-digital moments are essential for helping our kids stay physically active, build social skills, and spark creativity.
Navigating Social Media with Older Kids
For those with pre-teens and teens, managing screen time goes beyond just how much time they spend online. I focus on open communication about the pressures and risks of social media, like cyberbullying and comparison culture, while encouraging positive and responsible use of these platforms. Setting privacy rules, discussing what’s appropriate to share, and teaching them to navigate social media in a mindful way are crucial. I recently teamed up with Victim Services Toronto to raise awareness to create a safer online space for our children, so parents, I encourage you to check them out!
Screens are part of our lives now, and that’s not a bad thing. We’re all navigating this digital age together, so don’t be too hard on yourself! It’s about balance, not perfection. Let’s keep raising mindful, tech-savvy kids who are as connected to the world around them as they are to their screens 🫶🏽
—Trisha xo