Managing Screen Time for Teenagers
Tips for parents to foster healthy digital habits
As digital devices become an integral part of daily life, managing screen time for teenagers has become a growing concern for parents and healthcare professionals alike. Excessive screen time can impact teens’ mental health, sleep patterns and social interactions. Emplify Health encourages parents to engage in open conversations with their teens about screen use to promote balanced and healthy digital habits.
Emily Rae, MD, Behavioral Health at Emplify Health by Gundersen, emphasizes the importance of parental involvement in guiding teens through the challenges of digital consumption.
“Parents play a crucial role in helping their teens navigate the digital world. Talking openly about screen time helps teens understand the impact it can have on their well-being and encourages them to make mindful choices,” says Dr. Rae.
To support parents in this effort, Emplify Health offers three practical tips for discussing screen time with teenagers:
- Set Clear and Consistent Boundaries Establishing clear rules about when and where screens can be used helps develop a routine that balances digital and offline activities. For example, designating screen-free zones such as the dining room during meals or setting limits on screen use before bedtime can improve family interactions and sleep quality.
- Encourage Open Dialogue and Active Listening Create a safe place for teens to share their thoughts and feelings about their screen use. Instead of imposing strict rules without explanation, parents should listen to their teens’ perspectives and collaborate on setting reasonable limits. This approach fosters mutual respect and helps teens feel empowered to manage their screen time responsibly.
- Promote Alternative Activities Encourage teens to engage in hobbies, physical activities and social interactions that do not involve screens. Participating in sports, arts or community events can provide meaningful experiences and reduce reliance on digital devices for entertainment and social connection.
Tiffany Born, LCP, PhD, Emplify Health by Bellin Pediatric Psychologist, adds, “It’s important for parents to model healthy screen habits themselves. Teens will notice if their parents are not following the guidelines they try to impose on them. Instead of being the rule-maker when it comes to screen time, try to be your teen’s partner in creating a balanced environment that supports the mental and physical health of everyone in the family.”
Emplify Health is committed to supporting families in fostering healthy lifestyles, offering resources such as the Parenting Tips Podcast. For additional services or to find a provider near you, please visit Bellin Health or Gundersen Health.