Our Technology and SEL Teams have been discussing the connection between technology use and social-emotional learning. To this end, members of our K-12 Technology Vertical Team created these guidelines to help families balance screen time with offline activities and promote well-being at home.
Why Limit Screen Time?
Excessive screen time can affect children’s:
- ✔️ Sleep quality
- ✔️ Physical health (less activity leads to weight gain)
- ✔️ Academic performance
- ✔️ Social skills and mental well-being
By setting boundaries, you promote healthy habits and strengthen family bonds.
Steps to Limit Screen Time
- Set Clear Rules: Establish “no screen” zones (e.g., during meals, in bedrooms, or family gatherings). Set time limits based on age.
- Use Built-In Parental Controls: Most devices and platforms come with tools to help manage screen time. The steps are different for each type of device, but this infographic has some information.
Tips for Parents to Regulate Students' Technology Use
- Set Clear Boundaries: Establish specific times for technology use, including when devices need to be put away for homework, meals, or family time.
- Create a Family Tech Agreement: Collaborate with your child to outline acceptable technology use, including what apps and websites are appropriate.
- Encourage Device-Free Zones: Designate certain areas of the home, like bedrooms or dining areas, as tech-free zones to promote face-to-face interaction.
- Monitor Screen Time: Use built-in screen time trackers on devices to monitor usage and set limits to ensure a healthy balance.
- Be a Role Model: Demonstrate responsible technology use by limiting your own screen time and engaging in offline activities.
- Promote Alternative Activities: Encourage participation in hobbies, sports, and outdoor activities that don’t involve screens to keep your child engaged.
- Educate About Online Safety: Teach your child about the importance of privacy, the risks of sharing personal information, and how to handle online bullying.
- Encourage Open Communication: Foster an environment where your child feels comfortable discussing their online experiences and any issues they encounter.
- Regularly Review Technology Use: Have periodic discussions with your child about their technology use and adjust rules as needed to reflect their maturity and responsibility.
- Lock Devices When Necessary:
- iOS: Use Downtime under Screen Time settings.
- Android: Use the Focus Mode feature to block apps.
- Smart TVs/Gaming Consoles: Use parental settings to limit hours of use.
Healthy Alternatives to Screen Time
- 🌳 Play outdoors or engage in sports.
- 🎨 Encourage creative hobbies like drawing, crafts, or music.
- 📚 Read books or explore new interests.
- 🤹♀️ Spend quality family time (board games, cooking together).
Empowering Through Balance!
When you limit screen time, you’re fostering a balanced, healthier lifestyle for your child. Let’s build a future where technology supports—rather than overtakes—our well-being.
