How To Limit Screen Time With Your Kids This Summer

Limiting screen time is always a battle, especially in summer. Your kids may have gotten used to increased screen time during the pandemic and will probably push back against you. The battle over smart devices like phones, tablets, gaming systems, and laptops can sometimes feel like too much. As a parent with two teenage sons, I know the stress of trying to wrangle kids off their devices to have them do chores or even settle down for bedtime. The struggle is real! If left unchecked, too much screen time can lead to sleeplessness, irritability, and depression. No matter what devices your children play on if you're wanting an easy way to help reduce stress in your life when it comes to allowing reasonable screen time this summer, follow these tips:

1. Make sure you set clear rules and consequences. You probably relaxed on those screen time rules during the pandemic and now that things are almost back to normal, you're having a heck of a time trying to reinstate them. Whenever you introduce your kids to technology, you need to set rules so there is no misunderstanding of how technology is supposed to be used. If you want your kids to do homework or chores before technology use, make sure they understand that upfront. If they are only supposed to play on their devices as opposed to your company laptop, you need to tell them. If you don't want them to chat Sometimes you will sound like a broken record, but you need to keep reminding them what the rules are. Also, don't forget to stand firm with consequences if they don't follow your rules. Don't be afraid to take devices so they understand you mean business.