8 Essential Tips for Parents Establishing Healthy Screen Time and Smartphone Habits for Kids and Teens

In this episode, I’m sharing tips and ideas to help parents navigate the digital landscape and foster healthy screen time habits for their children. I’ll explore eight essential tips for parents who are using smartphones to establish responsible and balanced screen time habits for their kids and teens:

Set Clear Boundaries, Lead by Example, Use Parental Control Features, Encourage Screen-Free Activities, Foster Open Communication. Collaborate on Media Choices, Establish Tech-Free Bedtime Routine, and Promote Offline Connections

By implementing these eight essential tips, parents can play an active role in establishing healthy screen time habits for their kids and teens using smartphones. Remember, it's all about finding a balance between digital engagement and offline experiences. 

Be sure to listen to episode 155 with Andrea Davis of Better Screen Time. : https://lisamustard.com/podcasts/navigating-screen-time-and-strengthening-family-connections-with-andrea-davis/

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Find a therapist:

Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us

Mental Health Resources and Support: 

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support via phone or chat for people in distress, resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Includes information on finding your local crisis center. Phone: 988 Website: http://suicidepreventionlifeline.org

SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.SAMHSA’s National Helpline | SAMHSA

It’s important to stress that these episodes are not meant to take the place of any work you’re doing with your therapist or doctor. In fact, please run these ideas by your counselor or doctor before you act on them to make sure you are ready for them or even fit for the suggestions. I can’t stress this enough, each person is unique and their situation is unique so please talk to your dr before starting anything new I may be suggesting.

The Therapy Show with Lisa Mustard, and the information provided by Lisa Mustard, is solely intended for informational and entertainment purposes and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis, or treatment regarding medical or mental health conditions. Although Lisa Mustard is a licensed marriage and family therapist, the views expressed on this site or any related content should not be taken for medical or psychiatric advice. Always consult your physician before making any decisions related to your physical or mental health.