Overview
What it is
Screen time is one of the most common family questions — and the healthiest approach is about balance, not just a number. What matters is what kids do on screens, when, and what screens might be crowding out (sleep, activity, connection). This guide helps you find a balance that works.
How It Works
How it works
- Think quality, not just quantityCreating, learning, and connecting differ from passive scrolling.
- Protect the essentialsGuard sleep, physical activity, family time, and homework.
- Keep screens out of bedrooms at nightOne of the most effective habits for sleep.
- Watch for warning signsTrouble stopping, mood tied to devices, or screens replacing other activities.
- Balance, don’t just banAim for a healthy relationship with tech, not a battle.
Benefits
Why it matters
- Make a family media planAgree together on when, where, and how much
- Set device-free times & zonesMeals, bedrooms, and homework time
- Model it yourselfKids notice how adults use devices
- Prioritize sleep and activityThese come first
- Revisit as kids growNeeds and rules change with age
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
- How much screen time is okay?There’s no single number — focus on balance and what screens might crowd out.
- What matters most?Protecting sleep, activity, connection, and learning — and the quality of screen use.
- What’s the single best habit?Keeping screens out of bedrooms at night helps sleep a lot.
- How do I set limits without a battle?Make a family media plan together, and model good habits yourself.
- What are warning signs of too much?Trouble stopping, mood tied to devices, or screens replacing other activities.
At a Glance
Key facts
- GoalBalance, not just limits
- FocusWhat, when & instead of what
- ProtectSleep, activity, connection, learning
- ToolA family media plan
- ModelYour own tech habits
Learn More
Where to learn more
Support balance and wellbeing: