Kids and Screen Time: Tips for the School Year

The Digital Dilemma of Parenting

Is your child glued to a screen, even when they should be doing homework or playing outside? Let’s face it, what started out as a simple way for you to keep your kids occupied while you get things done, has turned into their secret obsession with screen time. Screens are now embedded in daily life—used for schoolwork, social interaction, and entertainment. While technology can be educational, excessive screen use has been linked to sleep disturbances, behavioral concerns, and visual strain.

A recent study (Psychological Bulletin, 2025) analyzing data from nearly 300,000 children found a strong correlation between screen overuse—particularly time spent on video games—and increased social and emotional challenges.

When Tech Takes Over the Emotional Impacts are Obvious

Oftentimes, youth are more irritable, distracted, and unfocused when they have had extended periods of screentime. You’re not imagining it. Research shows that too much screen time can overstimulate the brain, leading to difficulties in focus and emotional regulation.

But here’s the good news: you have the power to help your child develop a healthier relationship with screens. It starts with setting clear, consistent limits and encouraging other activities that promote well-being.

Navigating the Detox Phase from Screens

As you begin to set new screen time boundaries, it’s normal for your child to go through an adjustment period often called a “detox” phase. It’ll start out little bumpy at first. Kids will likely be more moody, say they’re bored, or push back against the new rules. This “detox” phase is totally normal it’s just their brain adjusting to less stimulation.

The most important thing during this phase is patience, and to stick with it! Stay calm, be consistent, and offer fun alternatives like playing outside, reading, or doing something creative together. Most kids settle into the new routine within a few days or weeks, and many become more focused, calmer, and even happier.

Just like with any healthy habit, the initial discomfort often gives way to surprising benefits. Many parents find that after a few days or weeks, their children become calmer, more focused, and more engaged with the world around them.

screentime for kids

Creating a Healthier Routine

To foster a balanced lifestyle:

Set Clear Screen Time Limits

Establish daily screen time limits based on your child’s age and needs. For instance, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than one hour per day of recreational screen time for children aged 2 to 5 years. School age children are recommended to keep screen time at a range of 1.5-2 hours

Create Screen-Free Zones

Designate certain areas of your home, like the dining room or bedrooms, as screen-free zones. This encourages face-to-face interactions and helps establish boundaries between leisure and rest.

Encourage Physical Activity

Make sure your child has plenty of opportunities for physical activity, whether it’s playing outside, participating in sports, or just taking breaks to move around during screen time.

Foster Offline Hobbies

Encourage your child to explore hobbies that don’t involve screens, such as reading, drawing, or playing a musical instrument. These activities not only reduce screen time but also promote creativity and cognitive development.

Be a Role Model

Children often mimic their parent’s behaviors. By modeling healthy screen habits, like limiting your own screen time and engaging in offline activities, you set a positive example for your child.

Use Technology Wisely

Leverage parental control tools to monitor and limit your child’s screen time. Apps like Apple’s Screen Time or Android’s Digital Wellbeing can help set specific time limits and ensure age-appropriate content.

Establish a Structured Routine

A consistent daily schedule helps children transition smoothly between activities. Incorporate specific times for schoolwork, physical activity, family time, and screen time to maintain balance.

Encourage Social Interaction

Organize playdates or family outings to promote face-to-face interactions. Socializing in person helps children develop essential communication skills and emotional intelligence.

The New School Year is Great Opportunity for New Routines

As the school year begins, it’s an ideal time to reassess your family’s screen time habits. Collaborate with your child to set realistic goals and establish routines that prioritize both academic responsibilities and personal well-being.

Remember, the goal isn’t to eliminate screen time entirely but to ensure it’s balanced with other enriching activities. By setting boundaries and encouraging diverse experiences, you help your child develop a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

Seeking Support

Now it is time to begin….The thing that started out as a means to keep your little ones busy needs to go. It seemed great at first but you realize screentime is impacting you, your family’s harmony, and your child too! With consistent effort and clear boundaries, you can guide your child toward healthier screen habits.

Request Counseling Support

If you feel you need support in managing screen time or have concerns about your child’s digital habits, professional guidance may be a great next step. Whether this looks like personal counseling for yourself or play therapy sessions for your child, you are not in this alone in this. We’re here to help! Visit our Therapist Page to learn more about each provider in our practice.