Setting Boundaries: How to Effectively Limit Screen Time for Kids

1. Set a daily limit 

Setting a daily limit for kids’ screen time is an important part of parenting. It can be difficult to limit the amount of time your children spend on their devices, but it’s important to do so in order to ensure their physical and mental health. Here are some tips for setting a daily limit for kids’ screen time.

First, decide on a reasonable amount of time for your children to spend on their devices. This should be based on their age, as well as their individual needs. For example, younger children may need less time than older children. Consider also the type of activities your children are engaging in on their devices. If they are using them for educational purposes, then more time may be appropriate.

Once you have decided on a daily limit, make sure to communicate it to your children. Explain why it’s important to limit their screen time and how it will benefit them in the long run.

Next, create a schedule for your children to follow. This should include specific times for when they can use their devices, as well as times for other activities such as reading, playing outside, or doing homework. Make sure to stick to the schedule and enforce the daily limit.

Finally, use parental controls to help you manage your children’s screen time. These can be used to limit the amount of time they can spend on certain apps or websites, as well as to block inappropriate content.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your children are getting the most out of their screen time while still maintaining a healthy balance with other activities. Setting a daily limit for kids’ screen time is an important part of parenting and can help ensure that your children are getting the most out of their devices.

2. Establish a bedtime routine

Establishing a bedtime routine for kids is an important part of parenting. It helps to ensure that your children get enough sleep, which is essential for their physical and mental health. Here are some tips for establishing a bedtime routine for kids.

First, decide on a reasonable bedtime for your children. This should be based on their age and individual needs. For example, younger children may need to go to bed earlier than older children.

Once you have decided on a bedtime, make sure to communicate it to your children. Explain why it’s important to have a bedtime and how it will benefit them in the long run.

Next, create a bedtime routine for your children to follow. This should include specific times for when they should start getting ready for bed, such as brushing their teeth and changing into their pajamas. It should also include activities that will help them relax, such as reading a book or listening to calming music.

Finally, make sure to stick to the bedtime routine. This will help your children get into the habit of going to bed at the same time every night.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your children are getting enough sleep. Establishing a bedtime routine for kids is an important part of parenting and can help ensure that your children are getting the rest they need.

3. Offer rewards

Offering rewards for kids’ screen time is a great way to encourage positive behavior and help them develop healthy habits. Here are some tips for offering rewards for kids’ screen time.

First, decide on a reward system that works for your family. This should be based on your children’s age and individual needs. For example, younger children may need smaller rewards than older children.

Once you have decided on a reward system, make sure to communicate it to your children. Explain why it’s important to reward them for their screen time and how it will benefit them in the long run.

Next, create a list of rewards that your children can earn. These should be based on the amount of time they spend on their devices, as well as the type of activities they engage in. For example, if they are using their devices for educational purposes, then they should be rewarded for that.

Finally, make sure to stick to the reward system. This will help your children understand that their screen time is valuable and that they will be rewarded for positive behavior.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your children are getting the most out of their screen time. Offering rewards for kids’ screen time is a great way to encourage positive behavior and help them develop healthy habits.

4. Monitor content

Monitoring content for children’s screen time is an important part of parenting in the digital age. With the proliferation of technology and the internet, it is important for parents to be aware of what their children are viewing and how much time they are spending on their devices.

The first step in monitoring content for children’s screen time is to set clear expectations and boundaries. Parents should decide on a reasonable amount of time for their children to spend on their devices and make sure they understand the consequences of exceeding that limit. It is also important to discuss the types of content that are appropriate for children to view.

The second step is to use parental control tools. Many devices, such as smartphones and tablets, have built-in parental control features that allow parents to set time limits, block certain websites, and even monitor their children’s activity. There are also third-party applications that can be used to monitor and control children’s device usage.

The third step is to have regular conversations with your children about their online activity. Ask them what they are doing online and discuss the importance of being safe and responsible. Encourage them to ask questions and be aware of the risks associated with the internet.

Finally, it is important to be aware of the signs of excessive screen time. If your child is spending too much time on their device, they may be missing out on important activities such as physical exercise, socializing with friends, and participating in family activities. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take action and set limits on their device usage.

Monitoring content for children’s screen time is an important part of parenting in the digital age. By setting clear expectations, using parental control tools, having regular conversations, and being aware of the signs of excessive screen time, parents can ensure their children are using their devices in a safe and responsible manner.

5. Implement a “no screens at the table” rule

Implementing a “no screens at the table” rule for children’s screen time is an important part of parenting in the digital age. With the proliferation of technology and the internet, it is important for parents to be aware of how much time their children are spending on their devices and to set clear expectations and boundaries.

The first step in implementing a “no screens at the table” rule is to set clear expectations and boundaries. Parents should decide on a reasonable amount of time for their children to spend on their devices and make sure they understand the consequences of exceeding that limit. It is also important to discuss the types of content that are appropriate for children to view.

The second step is to enforce the rule. Parents should make sure that all devices are turned off and put away during meal times. This will help to create a distraction-free environment where the family can focus on conversation and spending quality time together.

The third step is to provide alternative activities. Instead of allowing children to use their devices during meal times, parents should provide other activities such as board games, puzzles, or crafts. This will help to keep children engaged and entertained while also encouraging them to interact with each other.

Finally, it is important to be consistent. Parents should make sure that they are enforcing the “no screens at the table” rule on a regular basis. This will help to ensure that children understand the importance of limiting their screen time and will help to create a healthy balance between device usage and other activities.

Implementing a “no screens at the table” rule for children’s screen time is an important part of parenting in the digital age. By setting clear expectations, enforcing the rule, providing alternative activities, and being consistent, parents can ensure their children are using their devices in a safe and responsible manner.

6. Use parental controls

Parental controls are a great way to manage your child’s screen time and ensure they are using digital devices in a safe and responsible way. Parental controls allow you to set limits on the amount of time your child can spend on their device, the type of content they can access, and the types of apps they can use.

The first step to using parental controls is to decide how much screen time you want your child to have. This will depend on their age, the type of device they are using, and the type of content they are accessing. Once you have determined the amount of time you want your child to spend on their device, you can set up parental controls to limit their access.

Most devices have built-in parental controls that allow you to set time limits, block certain apps and websites, and monitor your child’s activity. You can also use third-party parental control apps to manage your child’s screen time. These apps allow you to set time limits, block certain apps and websites, and monitor your child’s activity.

Once you have set up parental controls, it is important to monitor your child’s activity and talk to them about their digital usage. Talk to your child about the importance of using digital devices responsibly and explain the consequences of not following the rules.

Finally, it is important to be consistent and enforce the rules you have set. If your child is not following the rules, be sure to take action and remind them of the consequences.

By using parental controls, you can ensure your child is using digital devices in a safe and responsible way.

7. Have tech-free days. for kids sceen tim

Having tech-free days is a great way to help your child manage their screen time and ensure they are using digital devices in a safe and responsible way. Tech-free days allow your child to take a break from their devices and engage in other activities, such as reading, playing outdoors, or spending time with family.

The first step to having tech-free days is to decide how often you want to have them. This will depend on your child’s age, the type of device they are using, and the type of content they are accessing. Once you have determined how often you want to have tech-free days, you can set up a schedule and stick to it.

It is important to make sure your child understands why tech-free days are important and the consequences of not following the rules. Explain to your child that tech-free days are a way to help them stay focused and engaged in other activities.

Once you have set up a schedule, it is important to be consistent and enforce the rules. If your child is not following the rules, be sure to take action and remind them of the consequences.

Finally, it is important to provide your child with alternative activities during tech-free days. Encourage your child to read, play outdoors, or spend time with family.

By having tech-free days, you can help your child manage their screen time and ensure they are using digital devices in a safe and responsible way.

8. Encourage outdoor play 

In today’s world, it is becoming increasingly common for children to spend more time indoors, in front of screens, than outside playing. While there are many benefits to technology, it is important to encourage outdoor play for kids in order to ensure their physical and mental health. Outdoor play can help children to develop their physical strength, coordination, and balance, as well as their social and emotional skills.

One way to encourage outdoor play is to create a safe and inviting outdoor space. This could include a backyard, a nearby park, or even a balcony. Make sure that the space is free of hazards and that the equipment is age-appropriate and in good condition. If possible, provide some outdoor toys and games for the children to use.

Another way to encourage outdoor play is to set a good example. If you are taking your children outside to play, make sure to join in the fun. This will show them that outdoor play is enjoyable and important. You can also set a limit on screen time, and make sure that your children are spending some of their free time outdoors.

Finally, it is important to make outdoor play fun. This could include playing tag, hide-and-seek, or any other game that your children enjoy. You can also take them on nature walks, to the beach, or to a nearby playground. If you make outdoor play an enjoyable experience, your children will be more likely to want to do it.

Encouraging outdoor play for kids is an important part of their development. By creating a safe and inviting outdoor space, setting a good example, and making outdoor play fun, you can help your children to get the physical and mental benefits of outdoor play.

9. Use a screen time tracking app

In today’s world, it is becoming increasingly common for children to spend more time in front of screens than outside playing. While there are many benefits to technology, it is important to ensure that children are using screens in a healthy way. One way to do this is to use a screen time tracking app for kids.

A screen time tracking app can help you to monitor your child’s screen time and ensure that it is within a healthy limit. It can also help you to set specific rules and limits for your child’s screen time. For example, you can set a limit on the amount of time they can spend on certain apps or websites, or you can set a time limit for when they can use screens.

In addition to setting limits, a screen time tracking app can also help you to monitor your child’s online activity. You can see what apps they are using and what websites they are visiting. This can help you to ensure that your child is not accessing inappropriate content or engaging in risky behavior online.

Finally, a screen time tracking app can help you to encourage healthy screen habits. You can use the app to reward your child for using screens in a healthy way, or you can use it to set up reminders to take breaks from screens.

Using a screen time tracking app for kids can help you to ensure that your child is using screens in a healthy way. It can help you to set limits, monitor activity, and encourage healthy habits.

Screen time tracking app examples

1. Moment: Moment is an app that helps you track your screen time and set limits on how much you use your phone. It provides detailed reports of your daily and weekly usage, and allows you to set reminders to take breaks from your phone.

2. QualityTime: QualityTime is an app that helps you monitor and manage your digital habits. It tracks your phone and app usage, and provides detailed reports of your daily and weekly usage. It also allows you to set limits on how much time you spend on certain apps or activities.

3. AppDetox: AppDetox is an app that helps you manage your digital habits. It tracks your phone and app usage, and allows you to set limits on how much time you spend on certain apps or activities. It also provides detailed reports of your daily and weekly usage.

4. Flipd: Flipd is an app that helps you stay focused and limit your screen time. It allows you to set limits on how much time you spend on certain apps or activities, and provides detailed reports of your daily and weekly usage. It also has a “lock mode” that prevents you from using your phone for a set amount of time.

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0. Talk to your child about the risks of too much screen time

As a parent, it is important to talk to your child about the risks of too much screen time. Too much screen time can lead to physical, mental, and social health problems.

Physical health: Too much screen time can lead to physical health problems such as obesity, poor posture, and eye strain. It can also lead to sleep problems, as the blue light from screens can disrupt the body’s natural sleep cycle.

Mental health: Too much screen time can lead to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and attention problems. It can also lead to decreased concentration and focus, as well as an increased risk of developing an addiction to screens.

Social health: Too much screen time can lead to social health issues such as decreased social interaction, decreased empathy, and decreased communication skills. It can also lead to increased isolation, as well as an increased risk of cyberbullying.

When talking to your child about the risks of too much screen time, it is important to emphasize the importance of balance. Encourage your child to find a healthy balance between screen time and other activities such as physical activity, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

It is also important to set limits on screen time. Establish a daily limit for screen time and stick to it. Make sure to monitor your child’s screen time and be aware of what they are doing online.

Finally, it is important to lead by example. If you are constantly on your phone or other devices, your child is likely to follow suit. Make sure to set a good example by limiting your own screen time.

By talking to your child about the risks of too much screen time, you can help them find a healthy balance and stay safe online.

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1. Set a timer

Setting a timer for kids’ screen time can be an effective way to help them manage their time and stay focused on other activities. It is important to set a timer that is realistic and achievable for the child.

The first step in setting a timer for kids’ screen time is to determine how much time they should be spending on screens. This will depend on the age of the child and the type of activities they are doing. For younger children, it is important to limit their screen time to a few hours a day, while older children may need more time to complete schoolwork or other activities.

Once you have determined the amount of time, set a timer for the child to follow. It is important to make sure the timer is visible and easy to understand. For example, you can use a kitchen timer, a digital timer, or a timer app on a smartphone.

When the timer goes off, it is important to enforce the time limit. This means that the child should stop using the device and move on to another activity. It is also important to explain to the child why it is important to limit their screen time. This will help them understand the importance of managing their time and staying focused on other activities.

Finally, it is important to be consistent with the timer. If the child does not follow the timer, it is important to remind them of the time limit and enforce it. This will help them understand the importance of following the timer and will help them develop better time management skills.

Setting a timer for kids’ screen time can be an effective way to help them manage their time and stay focused on other activities. It is important to set a timer that is realistic and achievable for the child and to be consistent with enforcing the time limit. Doing so will help the child understand the importance of managing their time and will help them develop better time management skills.

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2. Create a tech-free zone

Creating a tech-free zone for kids’ screen time can be an effective way to help them manage their time and stay focused on other activities. It is important to create a space that is free from distractions and encourages the child to engage in other activities.

The first step in creating a tech-free zone is to determine where the space will be located. This could be a designated room, a corner of a room, or even a corner of the yard. It is important to make sure the space is away from other distractions, such as televisions, computers, and other electronic devices.

Once the space is determined, it is important to set some rules for the tech-free zone. This could include no electronic devices, no phones, no tablets, and no computers. It is also important to explain to the child why it is important to limit their screen time and why it is important to have a tech-free zone.

Once the rules are set, it is important to provide the child with activities to do in the tech-free zone. This could include reading, playing board games, doing puzzles, or engaging in other creative activities. It is also important to provide the child with a timer so they can keep track of how long they have been in the tech-free zone.

Finally, it is important to be consistent with enforcing the rules of the tech-free zone. If the child does not follow the rules, it is important to remind them of the rules and enforce them. This will help them understand the importance of following the rules and will help them develop better time management skills.

Creating a tech-free zone for kids’ screen time can be an effective way to help them manage their time and stay focused on other activities. It is important to create a space that is free from distractions and encourages the child to engage in other activities. It is also important to set some rules for the tech-free zone and provide the child with activities to do in the tech-free zone. Doing so will help the child understand the importance of managing their time and will help them develop better time management skills.

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3. Unplug during family time

In today’s digital world, it can be hard to unplug from screens and devices during family time. Kids are often drawn to their phones, tablets, and computers, and it can be difficult to get them to put them away and focus on spending quality time together. However, it is important to make sure that family time is screen-free, as it allows for more meaningful conversations and activities. Here are some tips for helping kids unplug during family time. 

First, set a good example. Kids learn from what they see, and if they see their parents on their phones or devices during family time, they will be more likely to do the same. Make sure that everyone in the family is following the same rules and putting away their screens during family time. 

Second, plan activities that don’t involve screens. Whether it’s playing a board game, going for a walk, or doing a craft project, there are plenty of ways to spend quality time together without screens. Make sure to plan activities that everyone in the family will enjoy and that will keep them engaged. 

Third, set boundaries and expectations. Let your kids know that family time is screen-free and that they should put away their devices when it’s time to spend time together. Make sure to be consistent and enforce the rules. 

Finally, be flexible. If your kids are having trouble unplugging, try to be understanding and find a compromise. For example, you could allow them to have their devices for a certain amount of time before family time starts, or you could let them use their devices during certain parts of the day. 

Unplugging during family time is important for creating meaningful conversations and activities. By setting a good example, planning activities, setting boundaries and expectations, and being flexible, you can help your kids unplug and enjoy quality time together.

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4. Have tech-free meals

In today’s digital world, it can be hard to get kids to put away their screens and devices during meals. Kids are often drawn to their phones, tablets, and computers, and it can be difficult to get them to put them away and focus on spending quality time together. However, it is important to make sure that meals are tech-free, as it allows for more meaningful conversations and activities. Here are some tips for helping kids have tech-free meals. 

First, set a good example. Kids learn from what they see, and if they see their parents on their phones or devices during meals, they will be more likely to do the same. Make sure that everyone in the family is following the same rules and putting away their screens during meals. 

Second, plan activities that don’t involve screens. Whether it’s playing a game, having a conversation, or doing a craft project, there are plenty of ways to spend quality time together without screens. Make sure to plan activities that everyone in the family will enjoy and that will keep them engaged. 

Third, set boundaries and expectations. Let your kids know that meals are tech-free and that they should put away their devices when it’s time to eat. Make sure to be consistent and enforce the rules. 

Fourth, be flexible. If your kids are having trouble unplugging, try to be understanding and find a compromise. For example, you could allow them to have their devices for a certain amount of time before meals, or you could let them use their devices during certain parts of the day. 

Having tech-free meals is important for creating meaningful conversations and activities. By setting a good example, planning activities, setting boundaries and expectations, and being flexible, you can help your kids unplug and enjoy quality time together.

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5. Use a reward system

Using a reward system for kids screen time can be an effective way to manage how much time they spend on their devices. It can help to encourage them to use their devices responsibly and to focus on other activities.

The first step in implementing a reward system is to set clear expectations. Explain to your child what is expected of them when it comes to screen time. For example, you might set a limit on the amount of time they can spend on their device each day, or you might set specific times when they should be using their device. Be sure to explain why these rules are important and how they can help them in the long run.

Next, decide on a reward system that will motivate your child to stick to the rules. This could be something like earning points for every hour they spend off their device, or they could get a special treat for every day they follow the rules. Make sure the rewards are something your child will value and be excited about.

Finally, make sure to follow through with the reward system. If your child follows the rules, be sure to give them the reward they earned. This will help to reinforce the idea that following the rules will result in positive outcomes.

Using a reward system for kids screen time can be a great way to help them manage their device use. It can help to encourage them to focus on other activities and to use their devices responsibly. Just be sure to set clear expectations, decide on a reward system that will motivate them, and follow through with the rewards.

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6. Set a “no screens before bed” rule

Setting a “no screens before bed” rule for kids screen time can be an effective way to help them get a better night’s sleep. It can also help to reduce the amount of time they spend on their devices and encourage them to focus on other activities.

The first step in setting this rule is to explain why it is important. Explain to your child that screens can be distracting and can make it harder to fall asleep. You can also explain that screens emit blue light which can disrupt the body’s natural sleep cycle. Be sure to explain why getting enough sleep is important for their health and wellbeing.

Next, decide on a specific time when screens should be turned off. This could be an hour before bedtime or even earlier. Make sure to be consistent with this rule and don’t let your child use their device after this time.

Finally, come up with alternative activities for your child to do before bed. This could include reading a book, doing a puzzle, or even just talking to you. Make sure to provide plenty of options so your child doesn’t get bored.

Setting a “no screens before bed” rule for kids screen time can be a great way to help them get a better night’s sleep. It can also help to reduce the amount of time they spend on their devices and encourage them to focus on other activities. Just be sure to explain why it is important, decide on a specific time when screens should be turned off, and come up with alternative activities for your child to do before bed.

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7. Use a media diary

Using a media diary for kids’ screen time is a great way to keep track of their usage and ensure that they are not spending too much time in front of a screen. It can also help parents to monitor their children’s online activities and ensure that they are using the internet safely.

To use a media diary for kids’ screen time, start by setting a limit on the amount of time your child can spend in front of a screen each day. This limit should be based on their age and the type of activities they are doing. For example, younger children should have less screen time than older children.

Once you have set a limit, create a media diary for your child. This can be done in a notebook, on a spreadsheet, or even on a mobile app. Record the date, time, and type of activity your child is doing while on the screen, such as playing a game, watching a movie, or using a social media platform.

It is also important to set rules for your child’s screen time. For example, you may want to limit the amount of time they can spend on social media or playing video games. You may also want to set a rule that they must take a break after a certain amount of time.

Finally, make sure to talk to your child about their screen time. Ask them how they are feeling and if they are enjoying the activities they are doing. This will help you to understand their needs and ensure that they are not overusing their screen time.

By using a media diary for kids’ screen time, you can ensure that your child is using their time wisely and not spending too much time in front of a screen.

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8. Have a “no screens in the car” rule

Having a “no screens in the car” rule for kids’ screen time is a great way to ensure that your children are not spending too much time in front of a screen while in the car. It is also a great way to promote conversation and family bonding while in the car.

To have a “no screens in the car” rule for kids’ screen time, start by setting a limit on the amount of time your child can spend in front of a screen each day. This limit should be based on their age and the type of activities they are doing. For example, younger children should have less screen time than older children.

Once you have set a limit, make sure to enforce the “no screens in the car” rule. This can be done by not allowing your child to bring any electronic devices into the car, such as a tablet or phone. If your child does bring a device, make sure to turn it off or put it away during the car ride.

It is also important to provide alternative activities for your child to do in the car. This can include playing games, reading books, or having conversations. This will help to keep your child engaged and prevent them from getting bored.

Finally, make sure to talk to your child about their screen time. Ask them how they are feeling and if they are enjoying the activities they are doing. This will help you to understand their needs and ensure that they are not overusing their screen time.

By having a “no screens in the car” rule for kids’ screen time, you can ensure that your child is using their time wisely and not spending too much time in front of a screen.

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9. Have tech-free activities

Technology is a great asset to have in our lives, but it is important to remember that it can be a distraction from the real world. Kids need to learn how to interact with each other and the world around them without the use of technology. Here are some ideas for tech-free activities for kids to help them develop their social and physical skills.

1. Outdoor activities: Taking kids outside to play is a great way to get them away from screens and into the real world. Activities like tag, hide-and-seek, and kickball are great for getting kids to interact with each other and the environment.

2. Arts and crafts: Arts and crafts are a great way to get kids to use their imagination and create something tangible. Activities like drawing, painting, and sculpting can help kids express themselves and develop their fine motor skills.

3. Board games: Board games are a great way to get kids to interact with each other and practice their problem-solving skills. Games like Monopoly, Clue, and Scrabble are great for teaching kids strategy and helping them develop their social skills.

4. Reading: Reading is a great way to help kids develop their literacy skills and learn about the world around them. Reading books, magazines, and newspapers can help kids expand their knowledge and learn new things.

5. Cooking: Cooking is a great way to get kids to learn about nutrition and practice their math skills. Activities like measuring ingredients and following recipes can help kids learn about the importance of healthy eating and develop their problem-solving skills.

These are just a few ideas for tech-free activities for kids. By encouraging kids to take part in activities that don’t involve screens, you can help them develop their social and physical skills and give them a break from the digital world.

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0. Limit access to devices

In today’s world, it is becoming increasingly difficult to limit access to devices for kids. With the rise of smartphones, tablets, and other devices, children are exposed to technology at an earlier age than ever before. While technology can be a great asset to have in our lives, it is important to remember that it can be a distraction from the real world. Therefore, it is important to limit access to devices for kids in order to ensure that they are able to develop their social and physical skills.

One way to limit access to devices for kids is to set specific times for when they can use them. For example, you could set a rule that devices are only allowed to be used after homework is finished or during certain times of the day. This will help ensure that kids are not spending too much time on their devices and are instead focusing on their studies and other activities.

Another way to limit access to devices for kids is to set limits on the type of content they can access. You can set parental controls on devices to block certain websites or apps that are not suitable for children. This will help ensure that kids are not exposed to inappropriate content and can instead focus on activities that are beneficial to their development.

Finally, it is important to set a good example for kids when it comes to using devices. If you are constantly on your phone or tablet, kids will think that it is okay for them to do the same. Therefore, it is important to limit your own device usage and show kids that there are other activities that can be done instead.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that kids are not spending too much time on their devices and are instead focusing on activities that will help them develop their social and physical skills.