One of the most frequent questions I get asked on my Navigating the Digital Jungle podcast is:
“How do I get my kids off screens?”
Here are my top five simple tips to help:
- No screens at least one hour before bedtime.
- Have device-free dinners.
- Browse the internet together.
- Plan fun, non-screen activities.
- Encourage children to switch off devices themselves.
No screens at least one hour before bedtime.
Research from the National Sleep Foundation highlights that iPads, smartphones, and tablets emit strong blue light, which interferes with your child’s ability to fall asleep. This stimulation before bed can leave their minds buzzing when they need to wind down.
Make it a family rule to turn off devices at least an hour before bedtime and keep screens out of bedrooms overnight. This helps busy minds relax, promoting restful sleep and ensuring kids wake up refreshed and ready for the day.
Have device-free dinners.
Amazing things happen when families make the dinner table a no-device zone.
Instead of nagging about eating veggies or holding utensils correctly, use mealtimes as an opportunity to chat, laugh, and connect with your kids.
One client of mine faced constant negativity during Sunday lunches at Grandma’s. I suggested they lighten the mood by asking fun questions like, “What would you do if you were invisible?” or sharing one good thing that happened to each person that day.
Why not have your kids create a colourful poster for the kitchen with the slogan #DeviceFreeDinner? It’s a small step that can make a big difference.
Browse the internet together.
Don’t let the internet raise your children. Stay involved, ask questions, and use the online world as a tool for connection and teaching.
Find out what videos they’re watching, what music they love, or which YouTubers they admire. Use these conversations to “talk and teach” about online safety.
The internet can be a wonderful resource for learning and staying connected, but it’s also a space that requires careful navigation. Be your child’s parent—not just their friend—and act as their media mentor. Establish clear family rules around screen time to maintain balance, not bans.
Plan fun, non-screen activities.
Create excitement around non-screen time by introducing “ING” activities: bowlING, bakING, cyclING, craftING, dancING, readING… you get the idea!
Instead of nagging them to stop playing Fortnite or tackle their homework, offer enjoyable alternatives. Establish new family traditions like Saturday morning bike rides or Sunday afternoon board games. With a little planning, you can bring back the laughter and connection that screens sometimes steal.
Encourage children to switch off devices themselves.
This is a small yet powerful habit to instill in your kids. By turning off their devices on their own, they learn self-regulation and take responsibility for their screen time.
Avoid dramatic actions, like Kirstie Allsopp’s infamous decision to smash her kids’ iPads in frustration. Instead, set clear media rules, remain consistent, and foster healthy, long-term digital habits.
