Families For Life | A parent's guide to setting screen time rules
Screen time, when balanced with other activities, can benefit your child in many ways. It’s important to know where to draw the line, because too much screen time can start to affect your child’s health and development. We have various resources that explore this in greater detail and offer practical tips and more.
So, how do you set screen time boundaries at home? It starts with recognising that the goal isn’t to restrict for the sake of it, but to help your child find a healthy balance. Here are some tips to guide that conversation.
Involve the Whole Family
It shouldn’t just be mum and dad setting the rules and expecting everyone to follow them. It’s important that the whole family is involved in shaping these guidelines and agrees to uphold them. When everyone has a say, the rules feel fairer and are more likely to stick.
Be Flexible
Have different rules for different days, such as school days, holidays, and weekends. This helps set clear expectations and keeps screen use manageable. For example, a school night might allow only a short burst of screen time after homework, while weekends can be a bit more flexible.
As your child grows, their interests and needs will naturally shift, so revisit these rules from time to time to make sure they still make sense!
Encourage Accountability
Your child might break a rule every now and then, and that’s normal. What matters is that they understand the consequences of doing so. Make sure these consequences are explained clearly right from the start, so there’s no confusion later on. When expectations and outcomes are transparent, it becomes easier for them to learn from their choices and develop healthier habits over time.
Introduce Choices
Giving your child choices helps them feel more in control and encourages cooperation. These choices don’t have to be big ones. Even small decisions can make a difference. For instance, you could let them pick what they want to watch or decide when to use their allocated screen time – whether that’s before dinner or after dinner. When children have a say in how things work, they’re more likely to respect the rules and feel empowered rather than restricted.
Every family’s routine looks different, and screen time will naturally shift as your child becomes older and more independent. By staying consistent, keeping communication open, and adjusting your approach when needed, you can create a supportive environment where technology enhances rather than disrupts daily life.
Resources:
https://familiesforlife.sg/pages/Digital-Balance-Real-Connection