06/15/2022
This is from a post from Alexandra and Scott at Big Life Journal. I liked the ideas so thought I would share.
Alexandra stated she "receives so many emails and comments from parents who are annoyed by and concerned about the amount of time their child spends on devices."
"For teens and pre-teens in particular, it’s just easier to rely on their mobile appendage 🤳 for every bit of information they think they’ll ever need!"
"So, though devices are a part of our lives, we should model the importance of taking a break from them. You can take this parenting-step further by actively helping to reduce your child’s screen time."
Here’s how:
1.Make their bedroom a screen-free zone: Keep TVs, phones, tablets, and computers out of your child's bedroom to prevent the temptation of using screens when they can't sleep. (HINT. Most Wi-Fi providers now let you schedule which devices can access your home network during which hours.)
2. Encourage non-device interests: Talk to your child about exploring something that interests them, like hiking or learning arts or crafts. (HINT. Help them choose an interest that is not reliant on technology for learning.)
3. Be the example: Turn your phone on silent during family activities or when you're engaged in conversation with people to model healthy behaviors with devices. (HINT. Tell your child you are doing this to prioritize your time with them and others.)
There's no reason to ban screens from your home. However, setting some healthy boundaries can give your child the right balance between screen time and their emotional and physical health.
