Does taking away devices hurt or help kids learn better habits? I’m afraid it just teaches them how to be sneakier…
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Taking devices away from your children can be difficult — you want them to understand the importance of time away from screens without resentment. And without proper communication, it can lead to kids attempting to sneak in their tech use.
The good news is you can set firm screen time boundaries without causing your children to hide their tech use from you. Here’s what our experts have to say:
- Be a role model. We know this one can be so hard when you’re trying to stay on top of deadlines and stay connected in your own relationships, but telling your kids to put down their phone while scrolling on yours isn’t likely to be effective. Our children learn A LOT just from watching us, so try your best to set limits for yourself and be honest with them about how you struggle with tech sometimes too.
- Find your balance. It can help to explain the concept of moderation to your child. You can use an example of eating a balanced diet. It’s important to eat nutritious foods and to enjoy treats or desserts in moderation. The same thing is true for spending time on screens — it’s okay sometimes, but not a healthy replacement for doing things you love or connecting with people in real-time.
- Make no-screen time fun. Teach your children that spending time away from their devices can be enjoyable. Try scheduling tech-free activities that they’ll enjoy, such as a family game night, nature walk, or dance party. Encourage them to reflect on how good it feels to be in the present moment.
If you find your child is struggling to connect without access to technology, a mental health coach or therapist can be a great resource. By working with a mental health professional, your teen can learn to connect with the emotions that tech use (and reducing tech use) brings up, set goals to improve their screen time, and learn tools to help them fully experience life offline. Check out the this article for more, Family guide: 5 strategies for setting digital media boundaries and guidelines for kids.
Other questions
Am I wrong for not wanting my kids to have a mobile phone? I feel that this is something reserved for a teenager around the ages if 16 and up.
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Unfortunately, there’s no right answer—no perfect age for a kid to get their first phone.
My son told me that his best friend's family has an “internet agreement” - What is that? Should I have one?
Family device and internet agreements are great mechanisms for getting on the same page with your child before allowing them to use the internet or get their own phone.
We're ready to give phones to our two tweens and want to protect them and have parental controls on their devices. How does the Aura parental controls subscription work?
We're here to help kids explore safely and build healthy online habits with the Aura Suite Family Plan or Aura Parental Controls Plan, these plans include unlimited kids and unlimited devices.
My teenage son is withdrawing from real life and spends all his time online. Should I be worried?
The teenage years can be a rollercoaster of emotions, and while some behavioral changes are completely normal, it’s important to recognize when your teen is isolating and experiencing changes in behavior or mood due.
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