Creating Healthy Screen Habits at Home

As parents, the way we use screens – including smartphone – has a powerful influence on our children’s habits and attitudes.

Young children learn by observing the adults around them, so when we demonstrate balanced, mindful and purposeful screen use, we help them develop healthy digital behaviours.

This means showing that screens are tools, not distractions, and prioritising face-to-face interactions, play, and rest over constant connectivity. By setting boundaries for ourselves – such as putting phones away during family time or meals and prioritising conversations and play, we send a clear message that relationships and real-world experiences come first. Role-modelling these habits early helps children build a positive relationship with technology. Even more importantly, we will be supporting our children’s language development, their social skills and emotional development and their wellbeing.

This film from the Raising Children Network has some great tips and ideas for helping us to be good digital role models.

You can also take this quiz from Health Professionals for Safer Screens to find out how healthy your relationship with your phone is.