Summer With Teens: Tackling Technology
Today for summer with teens, we are tackling technology. I think most of us wish we were parents in the 80s so we could have 5 channels and rent videos. It would make summer a lot simpler. But this is our reality. So, having a game plan is important. Read on to find out how to reduce screen time and get your tweens and teens involved in all sorts of other activities.
I know different things work well for different families, but this is what has been helpful for us. Like we talked about yesterday, setting clear expectations has been key!
How To Reduce Screen Time This Summer
External Controls
I know these aren’t for everyone, but we love our Google Wifi. Life changing. We set a schedule for when wifi goes on and when it turns off. In the summer we generally keep it off until a later time so my kids can focus on getting necessary things done before even having an option for TV or XBOX. If you have cell phones that are an issue, ourpact or screen time works great for this too. These options take me out of the equation which I love. Click here to learn all about how we use external controls to reduce screen time.
Phone Bedtime
Set a time phones need to be plugged in each day. This could just be at bedtime or during certain hours of each day. Decide what works best for your family.
Must Do List
Having a list of items that must be accomplished each day before free time, tech time, or friend time helps keep everyone on the same page. It’s nice to keep these things consistent so there isn’t much arguing or negotiating about them. This doesn’t mean screens are a reward, just that certain items need to be done before free time.
Screen Free Go Tos:
A lot of tweens and teens have a hard time figuring out what they are supposed to do if they have free time and screens aren’t an option. Having a list they can see that is full of options can help jog their brain so that tech isn’t always their fall back plan. Summer is a great time to be creative, learn new talents, or experiment with old ones. If you need help creating a list, checkout our free printable with over 100 summer ideas for teens.
4 Basic Needs
There was a study that came out a few years ago that said all kids need 4 things everyday to feel happy: nature, physical touch, human connection, and physical movement. Talk about the importance of those things and make sure your teens are checking those boxes most days.
A Screen Free Week
Last year we did a screen free week and it was so good for ALL of us. Check out my post to learn why we did a screen free week, how we made it work, and my main takeaways when it was all said and done.
Family Expectations
And just a reminder that screen time is such a personal thing for each family and what works well for one, will be a bust for someone else. You don’t need to compare your screen time rules with others…just do what you feel is best for your family and if you need a change, mix it up! Try something new!
If everyone is grumpy, unmotivated and miserable, including you, it’s a good indication that change is needed.
Leave a Comment
Have you found a way to make screens work during the summer for the teens in your home? Are you trying to figure out how to reduce screen time at your house or happy with how things are going?
