Screens are part of everyday life—and for children and teens, they can be a great source of fun, learning, and connection. From educational apps to keeping in touch with friends, screen time isn’t all bad. In fact, it can support creativity, learning, and social skills when used in healthy ways.
But like most things, balance is key.
So how much screen time is “enough”? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but here are a few signs that screen time might be starting to impact your child’s wellbeing:
⚠️ Big emotions or meltdowns when screens are turned off
⚠️ Avoiding other activities like outdoor play, reading, or time with friends
⚠️ Trouble sleeping or winding down after screen use
⚠️ Falling behind on schoolwork or daily responsibilities
⚠️ Less interest in non-screen hobbies or social interaction
If you’re noticing some of these signs, it might be time to revisit your family’s screen habits. That could mean setting clearer boundaries, creating tech-free zones or times (like at meals or before bed), or finding more screen-free ways to connect as a family.
💡 The goal isn’t to eliminate screens—but to help your child use them in ways that support their development, relationships, and mental health.
👉 If you’d like support around screen time, behaviour, or emotional wellbeing, I offer practical strategies and support for families. Please get in touch to find out how I can help
