In today's interconnected world, screens, social media, and online gaming are integral to adolescent life, offering unparalleled opportunities for connection, learning, and entertainment. However, they also present unique challenges for mental health, well-being, and development. As parents and caregivers, understanding and guiding your teen's digital habits is more crucial than ever.
The Realities of Teen Screen Time
Screens are a big part of modern life—and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Smartphones, social media, gaming, and streaming can all offer positive experiences. But research shows that too much screen time, or using screens without boundaries, can impact mental health, sleep, academic performance, and relationships.
Common Concerns
“Is my teen addicted to their phone?”
“How do I talk about social media without sounding out of touch?”
“Should I be worried about the games they’re playing?”
“They’re always online—are they getting enough sleep or real-life interaction?”
“How do I talk about social media without sounding out of touch?”
“Should I be worried about the games they’re playing?”
“They’re always online—are they getting enough sleep or real-life interaction?”
Tips for Building Healthy Tech Habits
Model balance. Your habits matter too—teens notice when adults are glued to their phones.
Make it a conversation, not a lecture. Ask questions. Listen. Stay curious.
Create tech boundaries together. Work with your teen to set realistic limits and screen-free zones (like the dinner table or bedroom at night).
Use tools wisely. Parental controls can help with safety, but they work best alongside open communication.
Validate the positives. Technology also helps teens stay informed, build skills, and connect with peers.
Make it a conversation, not a lecture. Ask questions. Listen. Stay curious.
Create tech boundaries together. Work with your teen to set realistic limits and screen-free zones (like the dinner table or bedroom at night).
Use tools wisely. Parental controls can help with safety, but they work best alongside open communication.
Validate the positives. Technology also helps teens stay informed, build skills, and connect with peers.
Conversation Starters
“What’s your favorite app or game right now? What do you like about it?”
“Have you ever seen something online that made you uncomfortable?”
“How do you feel after spending a long time on your phone?”
“What helps you take a break when screens start to feel overwhelming?”
“Have you ever seen something online that made you uncomfortable?”
“How do you feel after spending a long time on your phone?”
“What helps you take a break when screens start to feel overwhelming?”
You're Not Alone
Many parents feel overwhelmed trying to keep up with ever-changing technology. That’s okay. What matters most is staying engaged and connected with your teen. You don’t have to be an expert, you just have to show up and care.
Need support? Reach out to us! We’re here to help you navigate this digital journey together.
Need support? Reach out to us! We’re here to help you navigate this digital journey together.
Resources for Parents & Caregivers
Common Sense Media offers expert reviews on apps, games, movies, and TV shows, along with research-based tips to help families make informed choices about media and technology use.
American Academy of Pediatrics Family Media Plan is an interactive tool that allows families to create customized media plans that fit their values, schedules, and individual children’s needs.
Screenagers Movie & Resources is a widely viewed documentary series that explores teen screen time, social media, and mental health. Includes parent guides and discussion questions for schools and families.
Cyberbullying Research Center is a leading resource for understanding online safety, cyberbullying prevention, and how to talk to teens about digital behavior and responsibility.
American Academy of Pediatrics Family Media Plan is an interactive tool that allows families to create customized media plans that fit their values, schedules, and individual children’s needs.
Screenagers Movie & Resources is a widely viewed documentary series that explores teen screen time, social media, and mental health. Includes parent guides and discussion questions for schools and families.
Cyberbullying Research Center is a leading resource for understanding online safety, cyberbullying prevention, and how to talk to teens about digital behavior and responsibility.
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