3 Takeaways for Managing Screen Time in Youth
March 10, 2025Managing Screen Time in Youth: 3 Takeaways to Promote Healthy Living
Managing screen time for the youth in your family has never been more important. We all know that technology provides excellent tools for learning and connection, but excessive screen use can negatively impact mental health, physical activity, and overall well-being. At The Granite YMCA, our commitment to healthy living and youth development encourages families to integrate positive habits into their daily lives.
Here are 3 key takeaways to help manage screen time for young people while promoting a healthy lifestyle. Be sure to watch the Tiny Tips video featuring Rebecca Murphy, MD from Dartmouth Health Children’s for great guidance on this topic.
1. Set Boundaries
Agree on time limits and designated screen times. You and your child should outline an agreement that meets everyone’s needs. Make sure to write it down and refer to it from time to time to prevent disagreements. And remember, your child’s relationship with their phone or device is individual and the impact these devices have on their development will be unique, so you’ll want to be sure that the plan outlined meets their specific needs.
2. Promote Alternative Activities
Encourage your child to participate in other activities. Being outside, playing sports, spending time with friends, or engaging in fun hobbies can effectively replace screen time. Just by taking a walk and connecting with nature, your child will discover that there's plenty of fun to be had without their tech devices. Consider these questions when offering alternative activities:
- How are they interacting with friends? Only digitally or do they have in-person time?
- Are they involved in extracurriculars/interests outside of devices?
- Are you promoting a healthy lifestyle that addresses sleep and exercise?
3. Designate Screen-Free Zones
Find places in your home that you can designate as "screen-free" which will provide them with device-free time. This will allow for more family interactions and quality time together. Consider starting with the dining room table or your child's bedroom at bedtime. When outside the home, you can also designate areas like restaurants or a friend's house as screen-free, ensuring your child can be fully present. You can serve as a role model by adhering to these screen-free zones as well.
Managing screen time is an essential element of fostering healthy living in youth. By setting boundaries, providing alternative activities, creating screen-free zones, and serving as positive role models, families can cultivate a balanced lifestyle where technology serves as a tool rather than a distraction. The Granite YMCA and Dartmouth Health Children’s believe in empowering youth and families to thrive, both physically and emotionally. Let’s take these small steps today for a healthier tomorrow!
About the "Tiny Tips" Series
The Granite YMCA and Dartmouth Health Children’s partnership is dedicated to enhancing youth and family well-being. Through our "Tiny Tips" series, we’re able to provide parents and caregivers with tips from Dartmouth Health Children’s doctors and care teams. "Tiny Tips" cover topics from mental health to tummy troubles and everything in between. Together, we’re extending our impact by delivering health-related information that focuses on youth development and healthy living.
