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Reducing Screen Time in Teens: 5 Ways to Set Healthy Screen Time Habits

In today's digital age, teenagers are faced with unprecedented levels of screen time and digital distractions. Just last week, the American Psychological Association issued recommendations for guiding teenagers' use of social media, but as a parent or guardian, you might be wondering how you can actually encourage your teen to reduce their screen time and develop healthier digital habits.

Reflecting on my own experiences, I find it hard to imagine navigating the challenges of adolescence in a world so profoundly influenced by technology. Just a decade ago, technology looked vastly different, and concepts like viral videos on TikTok and cyberbullying through social media walls were unheard of.

Technology has become deeply ingrained in our everyday lives, and teenagers are at the forefront of this digital revolution. Social media platforms, gaming, and streaming services are all vying for their attention, making it harder than ever for teens to tear their eyes away from screens. But have you truly stopped to think about the consequences of this excessive screen time, especially for teenagers? As technology continues to advance, it's crucial that we understand the potential risks.

The negative effects of excessive screen time in teens

Excessive screen time has been linked to obesity, depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, impaired academic performance, and a range of other negative effects. According to a report by the American Academy of Pediatrics, these effects are just the tip of the iceberg and action must be taken to support our teens overall wellbeing. With technology being an integral part of our daily lives, screen time reduction has become a major concern for parents, educators, and health professionals alike.

So, what can parents do to help their teens develop healthy screen time habits? Here are a 5 tips to get started!

How to set healthy screen time habits for your teen

In understanding the detrimental effects of excessive screen time and taking proactive steps to address them, we can create a healthier and more balanced relationship between teenagers and technology. Encouraging mindful and intentional use of screens can contribute to improved physical health, enhanced mental wellbeing, and overall better quality of life for our adolescents.

Setting screen time limits for teens can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies and tips, it is possible to help them develop healthy screen time habits and hopefully avoid the negative effects that often come along with excessive screen time.

Here are a 5 screen time tips for teens from Zario:

1. Use built-in parental controls: Many devices come with built-in parental controls that allow you to set time limits, restrict certain content, and monitor usage. However, sometimes these controls may not be enough and this type of "control" can be frustrating for teens to understand. That's why Zario's newest feature, the Circuit Breaker™️, can be especially helpful. It allows your teen to put the control and choice into their own hands by setting their own limits for how many times they can open distracting apps like TikTok, Instagram, or Snapchat.

2. Set clear boundaries: Establish clear rules and expectations with your child about when and how much screen time they are allowed. For example, screen time is only allowed after homework is completed, or phone-free dinners are standard practice and the expectation in your household.

3. Use a timer: Zario for both Android and iOS now includes a Focus Timer! This is the perfect tool to empower your teen to create healthy digital habits for their future. The Focus Timer allows you or your teen to set up Focus Sessions, in which you dedicate a certain amount of time to a task or homework uninterrupted.

4. Encourage other activities: Encourage your teen to engage in other activities, such as exploring their creativity, reading, or connecting with their friends offline. This can help them develop a well-rounded set of interests and skills and reduce their dependence on screens in the future when boredom or stress occurs.

5. Lead by example: Children and teens, in particular, model their behavior after their parents. As such, it is important to ensure that you are providing a positive example regarding screen use. Limit your personal screen time and promote non-screen family activities like board games, trips, and reading.

Take action today to reduce your teens screen time

‍Remember, setting screen time limits for your teenager is not about depriving them of technology entirely. It's about finding the right balance that allows them to enjoy the benefits of technology while also prioritizing their overall wellbeing and development. By implementing these strategies and fostering open communication, you can support your teen in developing healthy screen time habits that will positively impact their physical and mental health, academic performance, and overall quality of life.

If you're struggling with screen time reduction in your household, know that you're not alone. Take action today by using the tips and strategies outlined above, and consider giving Zario a try. Our app is designed to help you and your family reduce screen time and improve your digital wellbeing. Download it now!

Written by: Lindsay Wentker

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