Screens and Sanity: Helping Your Kids Find Balance in a Digital World

In our tech-filled world, screens are everywhere—used for learning, entertainment, and staying connected. For kids, devices are a natural part of their daily lives. But with so much of childhood now spent in front of a screen, many parents are asking the same question: How much is too much?

The answer isn’t always simple—but the goal is clear: balance.

Why Screen Time Balance Matters

While technology offers incredible benefits, excessive screen time has been linked to sleep disturbances, mood changes, reduced physical activity, and challenges with attention. For kids and teens—whose brains and bodies are still developing—these effects can have a bigger impact.

Balance doesn’t mean eliminating screens altogether. It means helping kids create healthy habits that support their overall well-being.

5 Strategies to Support Healthy Screen Time Habits

• Create a daily rhythm

Set consistent expectations around screen use. Work together to build a daily routine that includes time for school, play, movement, creativity, meals, and rest. When kids know what to expect, they’re more likely to follow through.

• Model the behavior you want to see

Kids learn more from what we do than what we say. Try setting boundaries for your own screen use during family time or meals. Even small shifts, like putting your phone away during dinner, send a powerful message.

• Designate screen free zones

Make certain areas or times of day device-free (like bedrooms, the dinner table, or during homework). These zones help protect sleep and create moments for connection and calm.

• Prioritize active and creative play

Encourage activities that engage the body and imagination—playing outside, building, drawing, dancing, or reading. These types of play support emotional regulation, brain development, and social skills.

• Talk about tech use openly

Ask your child what they enjoy online, what makes them feel good—or not so good. Create a judgment-free space to talk about their digital life, and be open to making adjustments together.

What about educational screen time?

Not all screen time is equal. Learning apps, virtual field trips, and video chats with grandparents can be enriching. But even “educational” screen time should be balanced with offline experiences that build social-emotional skills, physical health, and creativity.

There’s no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to screen time—but building healthy boundaries starts with conversation, consistency, and compassion. You don’t have to get it perfect. What matters most is staying present and engaged as your child navigates their relationship with technology.

Just Imagine! The world outside the screen is full of movement, magic, and meaningful moments—and you’re helping your child discover that balance every day.