A group of people can be seen all on their phones, which isn't healthy in the long run. Many ways make helping kids reduce their screen time in summer possible.
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Helping Kids Reduce Screen Time in Summer

As summer approaches, the temptation to increase screen time becomes a significant concern for many individuals and families. The relaxed structure of summer days often leads to prolonged use of digital devices, which can negatively impact both mental and physical health. Physically, individuals may experience eye strain, headaches, and disrupted sleep patterns. Mentally, excessive screen use is associated with increased risks of anxiety, depression, and diminished attention spans. For instance, studies have shown that adults can spend up to 11 hours daily on screens, leading to significant health concerns such as sleep disturbances and weight gain (UPMC HealthBeat, 2022). Addressing screen time addiction during this season is crucial for fostering healthier lifestyles and enhancing personal well-being. Below are strategies to help reduce screen time during summer.

1) Establish Tech-Free Zones and Times

Designate specific areas in your home, such as the dining room and bedrooms, as tech-free zones. Implementing periods during the day, like meal times or the hour before bedtime, where device use is prohibited, can encourage more meaningful interactions and better sleep hygiene.

2) Engage in Outdoor Activities

Summer provides an excellent opportunity to explore outdoor pursuits. Activities like hiking, swimming, or simply walking in nature reduce screen time and promote physical health and mental well-being. Immersing oneself in the natural environment can be an effective strategy to combat digital dependency.

3) Set Realistic Screen Time Limits

Work collaboratively with family members to establish daily screen time limits. Involving everyone in the decision-making process fosters accountability and adherence to the agreed-upon boundaries. When teens participate in creating household technology rules, they are more likely to take ownership and comply with the plan (TIME, 2015).

4) Model Responsible Screen Use

Children and teens often emulate the behaviour of adults. Parents can set a positive example by demonstrating mindful and limited use of technology. This activity includes avoiding excessive social media scrolling and prioritising face-to-face interactions. Being role models in managing screen time effectively throughout their day-to-day lives can influence younger family members to adopt similar habits (Bark, n.d.).

5) Encourage Alternative Hobbies

Use the summer months to discover and cultivate new interests that don’t involve screens. Whether reading, painting, playing a musical instrument, or gardening, engaging in diverse activities can be fulfilling and effective in reducing screen dependence. Resources like the “Summer Screen Time Survival Guide” can assist families in finding suitable alternatives (Better Screen Time, n.d.).

    Conclusion

    Breaking free from screen time addiction during the summer requires planning and commitment. Individuals and families can cultivate a healthier relationship with technology by establishing tech-free zones, engaging in outdoor activities, setting realistic limits, exploring alternative hobbies, modelling responsible behaviour, and considering digital detoxes. Embracing these strategies enhances personal well-being and enriches the quality of interpersonal relationships and overall life satisfaction.

    If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue, you can reach out here.

    Mandy Brincat is a Gestalt psychotherapist who enjoys working therapeutically with adults on various issues.  These include general mental health and well-being. She also has experience working with anxiety, victims of domestic violence and eating disorders.

    References

    1. Bark. (n.d.). *Screen Time Addiction: What You Need to Know*. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.bark.us/blog/screen-time-addiction/
    2. Better Screen Time. (n.d.). *Summer Screen Time Sanity with All Ages*. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://www.betterscreentime.com/summer-screen-time-sanity-with-all-ages/
    3. TIME. (2015). *8 Ways to Help Cure Your Teen’s Screen Addiction*. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://time.com/3705794/8-ways-to-help-cure-your-teens-screen-addiction/
    4. UPMC HealthBeat. (2022). *Unplugged: Breaking Your Screen Addiction*. Retrieved March 29, 2025, from https://share.upmc.com/2022/06/unplugged-breaking-your-screen-addiction/

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