Managing online screentime

From online lessons to streaming their favourite shows, children spend more time than ever on screens. To help children strike a healthy balance take a look at practical tips that can work for your family.

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Balancing screentime top tips

Screen time is a big part of modern life, but it is important to help children and young people find the right balance between online and offline activities. Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Set Daily Limits

Too much screen time can lead to fatigue and distraction, so work together to set reasonable daily limits for watching and browsing.

How to Create a Plan:

Use parental controls like Apple’s Screen Time or Google’s Family Link to set app and device usage limits.
Plan for regular breaks—20 to 30 minutes of screen time followed by a short activity like stretching or chatting.
Schedule device-free times, such as family meals, homework sessions, and at least an hour before bed to promote better sleep.

Check out our Screen time advice hub for more screen time tips and step-by-step help setting limits on different devices.

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2. Encourage a mix of activities

A balanced day includes a variety of experiences that go beyond screens. Help your child explore new interests and keep them engaged offline:

Active play: Encourage outdoor adventures, sports, or simple games in the garden.
Quiet time: Reading, writing, or puzzles can provide a screen-free way to unwind.
Creative projects: Inspire your child with art supplies, building blocks, or music.

Finding a healthy screen time balance

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Balanced digital diet

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3. Model healthy habits

Children often mirror the behaviour they see at home. By demonstrating balanced screen use yourself, you can set a positive example.

Limit your own device use during family times, such as meals or movie nights.
Replace endless scrolling with shared activities, like cooking or a board game.
Show your child how you manage your screen time, such as setting alarms for breaks or keeping devices out of the bedroom.

A child uses their smartphone in the dark in bed.

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