With the start of the new school year many families find that they are struggling with the use of screens. Perhaps screen time use was relaxed over the summer break and switching back to the school routine is challenging or new demands for devices are constant as kids head back to school and see what friends have.

You are not alone! Responsible media use is challenging for all families. Research continues to mount that social media use is causing a mental health crisis among young people so its worth your time to think about your family’s boundaries around media use as well as set a good example for healthy media use yourself!

Depending on the age of your children you will have different challenges. Preschool and early elementary students might not be asking for phones but you might need to set guidelines on TV or video games. Do you have a time limit per day? Only allow devices after specific chores are done or only on weekends?

Older elementary students and middle school students are often asking for phones and social media access. Feel confident in saying no or choosing options for phones that aren’t smart and have no internet access. Allow kids to text with friends on a family tablet instead of using a phone.

Wait Till 8th and Screen-Free Week are two organizations with research, realistic ideas and peer support to help you set and stick to appropriate boundaries for media use. Need more of a push to get started? Read the Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt which discusses the impact on children from the change from a “play-based childhood” to a “phone-based childhood”.