Managing Kids Screen Time

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Winter break gives children extra free time, and many naturally turn to phones, tablets, and computers for entertainment while parents handle work and holiday responsibilities. 

Too much unsupervised screen time can lead to risky situations, from exposure to harmful content to increased stress or negative emotions. 

There have even been cases where online personalities influenced dangerous behavior and AI chatbots encouraged harmful thoughts.

Parents can help by setting clear limits on device use and encouraging breaks from screens. 

One way to reduce screen time is to involve children in family activities.

Allison Anderson, Licensed Program Expert, told News 12 that: 

“Yeah, I think this time of year is a perfect opportunity to be able to kind of have kids help you in any holiday preparation and just getting them off of the device and having the structure if it’s like meal preparation, wrapping presents, table setting,” (Anderson).

Structured offline activities such as cooking, crafts, or outdoor play can give children alternatives to screens. 

Open conversations about healthy technology habits and modeling balanced screen use can also help children enjoy their devices responsibly while staying safe during the break.