Distilled Screen Time and Home Technology Recommendations

There is a lot of information out there to guide parents. We have distilled down hundreds of pages and expert recommendations into this consolidated list.

Be Involved

Talk about technology. Co-construct the rules of engagement.

Pay attention to quality as well as quantity.

Model appropriate use

Distinguish between devices.

Note how they are used. What is your child’s relationship with each one?

What is the device to watch and monitor most closely? Smartphone

All apps need to be approved

Screen time management apps

Dispel The Multi-Tasking myth

Educate your child about the downsides of trying to multi-task

Discourage or disallow distracting tech—social media, video watching, etc.—during study time.

Establish a Family Tech Plan with Rules Like the Following:

Create tech-free zones or times

All nighttime device charging happens at central family charging station.

No phones in bedroom starting an hour before bedtime.

No screens at dinner table

One phone or screen free day per week

Establish a Personalized Media Plan with Rules like the Following:

Child must accomplish certain things before getting phone

Daily or weekly screen time limits and curfews

Put away one hour before bedtime

No more than two hours of recreational screen time per day

Daily 45-90 minutes of physical exercise required prior to recreational screen time

Weekend: All chores must be completed before recreational screen time

Weekdays: Half of homework complete before any recreational screen time