Q: Why does screen time tend to spike during the holidays?
School breaks often come with relaxed schedules, travel, and time at home. Kids may receive new tablets, video games, or other tech-related gifts, and the excitement makes it easy for screen use to increase quickly. Parents are often juggling work, family gatherings, or household responsibilities, so handing a device to keep a child entertained can feel practical. These shifts are understandable, but without some structure, screen time can crowd out sleep, physical activity, and meaningful connection.
Q: Is increased screen time always a problem?
Not necessarily. Screens can offer entertainment, creativity, and even educational benefits. The goal is not to eliminate screens but to create balance. If screen use starts replacing quality sleep, outdoor play, family time, or the ability to focus on offline activities, it may be time to reassess. Setting screen limits helps kids enjoy their devices while still engaging with those around them.
Q: What strategies help set healthy limits during the break?
Start by creating a simple schedule that includes screen time, outdoor play, meals, downtime, and family activities. Children do better when they know what to expect. Try setting blocks of time when screens are allowed, rather than leaving it open-ended. This reduces negotiation and helps kids feel more grounded. Even during vacations, structure offers comfort.
Q: How can parents encourage children to step away from new games or devices?
It is natural for kids to become deeply interested in new toys or games. Instead of abruptly removing a device, offer a transition. Give a five-minute warning and suggest a new activity afterward. Offer alternatives that feel fun and engaging such as playing with a new non-digital toy, joining a family board game, or going for a walk. When the next activity feels appealing, kids are more likely to cooperate.
Q: What role can the outdoors play in balancing screen time?
Getting outside helps reset energy, improve mood, and reduce restlessness. Even short outings like visiting a park, walking the dog, or exploring holiday lights can break up long stretches indoors. Outdoor time also helps children reconnect with their environment and gives them a healthy break from constant stimulation. Parents often notice that after time outside, kids return calmer and more flexible.
Q: How can families stay connected during the holidays without relying on screens?
Shared activities help strengthen relationships and give kids something meaningful to look forward to. This might include baking, crafts, story time, board games, or simply talking during meals. When families intentionally create togetherness, screens become one option rather than the default. These moments often become some of the most memorable parts of the season.
Q: What should parents do if screen time becomes a point of conflict?
Conflict often signals that kids may need clearer expectations or a more predictable routine. Stay calm and consistent. Acknowledge their frustration and offer choices within limits, such as which activity to do next or when they prefer their next screen-block. If the conflict becomes overwhelming or impacts daily functioning, a mental health professional can help families navigate the emotional side of limit-setting.
Q: Why is balance especially important during long breaks?
Extended time away from school can disrupt routines that help kids regulate their emotions, energy, and behavior. Balanced screen use supports healthier sleep patterns, social skills, and attention. It also helps children return to school feeling more settled and ready to learn. Parents often find that maintaining structure during breaks leads to smoother transitions when regular schedules resume.
Q: How can the Children’s Center support families managing screen time challenges?
If you notice increasing irritability, difficulty transitioning away from screens, or ongoing conflict around device use, the Children’s Center can help. Our clinicians work with children and families to build healthy routines, strengthen communication, and support emotional regulation. We offer guidance tailored to each child’s developmental needs, helping families create a balanced and connected holiday season.
If screen time has become a struggle in your home, you do not have to manage it alone. Our team is here to help you find practical, sustainable strategies that support your child’s well-being – contact us today.