| Hello Sample,
School is out and kids suddenly have more free time—and perhaps more time to spend on their phones, electronic games, and the Internet. Do you ever feel like your child's technology has taken over their lives and your home? These devices can be wonderful tools for communication, learning, and healthy enjoyment when used appropriately. But they can also become disruptive and harmful.
The Challenge of Technology for Our Kids
Although technology use introduces new challenges, our basic Love and Logic principles still apply. Many parents struggle to decide what limits to set, how to enforce them, and how to equip their kids with the decision-making skills they’ll need when they’re on their own. The goal remains the same: raise responsible, thoughtful kids who make wise choices—even in the digital world.
Setting Limits Around Technology
Children under five should spend most of their time in real-world play and interaction, not screens. Even so-called educational content should be kept to a bare minimum. For older children, a healthy limit might be 15–30 minutes per day of screen-based entertainment. Wise parents set limits like this:
“In our home, phones, computer games, and Internet use are allowed only when they are not causing any problems.”
Electronics Addiction
Do you have a child obsessed with playing video games? Do you feel that your family is suffering as a result? I'm often asked, "How can I tell if my child is addicted to technology use?" Perhaps the simplest test is to ask them to stop for a week. If they can’t, it might be a sign they have a serious problem with technology use. |
