Hello Reader,

Has screen time taken over your family's summer? Let’s explore practical ways to set healthy boundaries around technology.

How?

By helping children develop the self-control they need to build balanced habits that last a lifetime.

🍹Summer Sips:
​Screens are part of everyday life, but we all know that when children spend too much time on devices, it can harm their sleep, mood, attention, and overall well-being.

A couple years ago, I had the privilege to work with world-renowned Dr. Justin Rowberry, a Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician. Dr. Rowberry has dedicated his career to helping families foster healthy relationships with technology.

In his video series, Great Tool, Horrible Master: Helping Families Build Healthy Relationships with Digital Technology, Dr. Rowberry offers practical insights to help parents confidently navigate raising children in a digital world.

✅ 6 Summer Tips:
​Dr. Rowberry reminds us that the goal isn't to eliminate technology—it's to teach children how to use it wisely. Healthy digital habits begin at home through consistent expectations, positive role modeling, and meaningful offline experiences.

Instead of focusing only on taking devices away, families can help children build balance by replacing excessive screen time with activities that strengthen relationships, creativity, physical activity, and emotional resilience.

1. Set clear screen time boundaries by deciding when, where, and how long devices can be used each day.
2. Create screen-free zones such as family meals, bedrooms, and family activities to encourage conversation and connection.
3. Model healthy technology habits. Children notice when adults put devices away and give their full attention.
4. Offer engaging alternatives like outdoor play, reading, crafts, board games, or helping with family projects.
5. Talk with your child about balance. Help them recognize how they feel after spending lots of time on screens compared with spending time with family and friends.
6. Stay consistent. Children are more likely to accept limits when expectations are predictable and enforced with kindness.

A little consistency today can do wonders for developing tomorrow's healthy digital habits. You can do this!

Warmly,​
​
​Kristen

P.S. Summer is a great time to explore our Brain Defense: Digital Safety curriculum with your kids. Go to our website to learn more: https://www.defendyoungminds.com/brain-defense​

Support your child's healthy media habits with Good Pictures Bad Pictures—engaging, age-appropriate stories that make tough conversations easier to start.