Screen Time Rules That Actually Work for Children and Teens

It’s summer already, and let’s be honest, your home might already feel like a mini war zone.

One child is glued to the TV, another is buried in their phone, and no one seems to know where the remote or charger is again. You’ve tried everything; shouting, pleading, even hiding the phone but somehow, they always find their way back to it.

It’s frustrating and you’re not alone.

This season brings more free time than usual, and for most young people today, screens are a natural escape. Whether it’s chatting with friends, watching movies, gaming, or scrolling endlessly, it’s how they relax, stay connected, and avoid boredom.

Still, too much screen time comes with its own problems; poor sleep, bad moods, zero motivation, and tension in the home. Finding a middle ground can feel impossible, but there are ways to manage it with less stress.

Start with a conversation

Rather than jumping straight to “Drop that phone!” try easing in with something like, “You’ve spent quite a bit of time on your phone today. Can we talk about how we can mix things up a bit?” You’ll be surprised how much better they respond when they feel heard.

Create phone-free moments

Pick simple, regular times each day where screens are put aside during meals, before bed, or while doing chores. Make it a whole-house thing so they don’t feel like it’s just punishment.

Offer something else to do

Not just chores. Something fun. This could be:

- Cooking or baking something new

- A family games night

- Visiting cousins or inviting a friend over

- Starting a new book, art project or challenge together

- Enrolling in a coaching or mentorship program like ready for life summer

- Trying out short volunteer or internship experiences, if they’re older

When young people have something meaningful to do, they naturally spend less time on screens.

Set phone boundaries together

If you can, sit with your child and agree on reasonable screen time rules. Phones these days even let you set app timers or focus hours. Let them be part of the decision - it builds responsibility.

Be consistent but flexible

There’ll be good days and not-so-great ones. Some days you’ll stick to the limits. Other days, you’ll blink and they’ve watched four hours of back-to-back TikTok. That’s okay. Parenting is not about perfection - it’s about presence.

Screens are part of our world now, and for many families, managing them is one of the biggest challenges of the holiday season.

You’re doing your best and this season is a good time to slow down, connect more, and try new rhythms at home.

There’s no one-size-fits-all method but with patience, routine, and love, you can create a home where everyone has space to grow even with Wi-Fi on.