Expert Opinion

How can I set healthy boundaries with technology use for my child?

11 Apr

For better or for worse, technology is part of our lives. As parents though, it’s important to set limits early to keep things balanced for our kids. For toddlers and preschoolers, it’s all about moderation and using screens thoughtfully.

 

Set clear family rules about when and where technology can be used. For example, no screens during meals or in bedrooms. Keep screen time to under an hour a day for children aged 2 to 5 years, as recommended by guidelines.

 

Focus on co-viewing whenever possible – watch shows or play games with your child so you can guide their experience and discuss what they’re seeing. This turns screen time into a shared learning activity rather than passive entertainment.

The problem with screen time is largely about what your child is missing out on by being glued to a screen. So, create plenty of screen-free alternatives, like puzzles, art supplies, or outdoor play. When these are easily accessible, your child is less likely to rely on screens for entertainment.

 

As parents, we really need to positively role model screen boundaries. If you want your child to have healthy screen habits, show them how it’s done. Put your phone away during family time and explain why: “I’m turning off my phone so we can play together.”

 

Lastly, if your child struggles when screen time comes to an end, use timers or routines to signal when screen time is over. Consistency helps kids know what to expect and reduces meltdowns when it’s time to turn off the device.

About the author

Amanda Abel is a paediatric psychologist, mum, and founder of Northern Centre for Child Development (NCCD) and Hawthorn Centre for Child Development (HCCD) – multidisciplinary paediatric practices in Melbourne. Working directly and indirectly with hundreds of clients each year, Amanda’s mission is for every child to achieve their best outcomes by equipping families and educators with the tools they need to help kids thrive.
Amanda draws on her own experiences of being a parent along with her extensive training and well-honed skill set to get families thriving. Having worked with families for almost two decades, as a psychologist for the past 11 years in a variety of settings, and a valued board member of the Autism Behavioural Intervention Association, Amanda loves building the confidence of the adults in the lives of children so that they can connect meaningfully, help them reach their full potential, and live a life that reflects their values.
Often appearing on Channel 7 and 9 News and regularly featuring in print media, Amanda is on a mission to make the world better for kids through her clinical work, consulting to some of the biggest global toy manufacturers and educating the digital media industry about making the internet safer for kids.
Photo by Tatiana Syrikova