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Tips for Helping Children Gain Autonomy over Screen Time

As the holiday season approaches, most families find themselves with an inevitable increase in free time that can be both a blessing and a challenge. It is a great time to spend time together and create lasting memories, however there will be the task of keeping kids engaged and entertained on holiday break. 


In today’s digital age, managing screen time has become a top priority for parents, and experts organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and The American Academy of Pediatric agree that it's important to set healthy boundaries. So how do parents achieve this without their children becoming glued to screens for hours on end?


Here are four tips to help children become "indistractable" and manage their screen time in a healthier way. 


1. Teach Time Management at a Young Age

Concepts such as "time management" and "balance" can be challenging for children to fully understand. The key is to simplify the language when discussing screen time. Use clear, relatable examples, such as explaining that spending too much time watching TV means missing out on other enjoyable activities, like playing outside.


2. Explain the Motives Behind Technology

For older children, explain that the entertainment and social media platforms they interact with are designed to keep them engaged for as long as possible and although they may be fun to use, many companies profit from their time spent online.


3. Collaborate with Kids to Set Screen Time Limits

Seek input from your child on what they think is the appropriate amount of time they get to have online. Have both parties come to an agreement and understanding and let them hold themselves accountable for their established time. Recognize when to step in when the limits are not being respected. 


4. Remove Parents as the Reinforcer

It’s important to remove parents from the role of the constant enforcer. Instead, use self-timers or alarms to signal when it's time to stop, empowering children to regulate their own screen time. Additionally, incorporate external resources like charts or apps that track usage to provide reminders and help children stay accountable without relying on parental intervention.


Remember, the goal isn’t to completely eliminate screens but to ensure that kids can enjoy them in moderation while also making room for other activities that foster creativity, learning, and physical well-being.




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