Schools off → Screens on!
Managing Screen Time During School Holidays: Practical Tips for Parents
Sooo … .summer break is almost here, and while it’s anticipation of fun, a long break, maybe a nice vacation, it also brings the dread of screen time! As soon as the school routine is out, most kids start to plan their holidays around the screen, coordinating with friends to play games at the same time, waking up to cartoons, video calls, and so on.
And now, as an aware and vigilant parent, you don’t want that, too much screen for your child puts you in the bad parent category, doesn’t it?
Well, let’s be honest, your kids are on break but YOU need to work, cook, or simply breathe. Screens offer time for that! However, overuse leads to meltdowns, sleep issues and behavioural issues.
SOLUTION? Not a ban. A balance.
So dear parents, let’s build your holiday Screen Time Survival Toolkit. (Free downloadable checklist at the end)
1. Set the Non-Negotiables First:
Before you even include screens, set a general routine for the day.
Every day must include:
- Outdoor time or movement
- Family time (even 20 mins)
- A chore or responsibility
- Creative time (drawing, pretend play, puzzles)
- School work
2. Define ‘Screen Time’ Clearly:
Not all screens require the same time. Be specific when limiting screen time: “One hour a day of phone for games or videos” No cheating from either side. If the grandparent is calling for 20 minutes, that time cannot be taken away from your teen’s game time.
3. Use the 20-20-20 Rule:
For every 20 minutes of screen use:
- Look at something 20 feet away
- For at least 20 seconds
Add an alarm if needed if your child is young or has difficulty in letting go. This will prevent eye strain as well.
4. Set a Charging Station (Away from Beds):
All screens get charged or placed at night in a common space or at least away from the bed. Not under pillows. Not on bedsides.
This would reduce late-night scrolling and help children and teens control the impulse of jumping to the phone at every chime or beep!
5. Be the Screen Model You Want to See:
Here comes the difficult one! If you’re on your phone constantly, kids notice. So, if you want your kids away from the phone, model that behavior. Children mirror what we do, not just what we say.
6. Plan Screen-Free “Anchor Points” Daily:
As a child psychologist, I cannot emphasize just how important this is! Have other rituals that help kids plan their day or have some pointers that help them in creating that routine that school offered them. For example,
- 5 PM is Park time
- Storytime at 8 PM
7. Use Screens for Connection, Not Just Distraction:
Screens don’t have to be the enemy only, use them as a bonding time. Watch a movie with them. Play a game together.
Lastly, Don’t Aim for Perfection — Aim for Awareness
There will be days when you may give them extra screen time so you can nap or they manage to sneak in some late-night scrolling.
It’s okay. The goal is not perfection. It’s mindful screen use and healthy boundaries.
Start with small changes. Stay consistent. Be kind to yourself as a parent.
Need help managing your child’s screen addiction, irritability, or routine struggles? Book a parent consult or child session today at www.psykapoor.com
Download your free printable checklist here:
For the young child