Parental perspectives on children’s screen time

In today’s digitally driven world, managing children’s screen time has become a pressing concern for parents across the globe. From the allure of social media to the immersive world of online gaming, children are spending increasing amounts of time in front of screens, raising questions about the impact of digital technology on their development and well-being

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on The Guardian 

Screen time trends

According to data from Ofcom, by the age of 11, 91% of children in the UK own a smartphone, while a study across 19 European countries found that 80% of children aged nine to 16 use smartphones to go online daily. Similarly, recent surveys in the US reveal that 42% of children have a smartphone by the age of 10, with ownership rising to 91% by the age of 14.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated these trends, with lockdowns leading to a surge in screen time among children. While UK parents reported a significant increase in their children’s screen time post-pandemic, recent global figures suggest a return to pre-pandemic levels for adults. However, concerns remain about the prolonged hours spent in front of screens, particularly among young people.

Parental experiences

To gain insight into the challenges and strategies associated with managing children’s screen time, the Guardian spoke to parents from diverse backgrounds and locations. From Amsterdam to Mumbai, Cape Town to São Paulo, parents shared their experiences and perspectives on their children’s digital habits.

For many parents, setting boundaries and implementing rules around screen time is essential. Steve, a parent in the Netherlands, uses Google’s Family Link to limit his sons’ time spent on devices, alongside traditional rules like no phones at the table. Similarly, Aditya in Mumbai decided to reduce his son’s screen time after noticing its negative impact on his speech and interaction with others.

Leading by example is another approach favoured by parents like Adrián in São Paulo, who believes in minimising his own mobile phone use to discourage dependency in his daughter. Meanwhile, discussions around the impact of social media on mental health are common among parents of teenagers, with concerns about excessive screen time and online pressures.

However, regulating screen time is not without its challenges. Many parents struggle to monitor their children’s online activities, with complaints about children evading controls and accessing inappropriate content. Moreover, the ubiquity of smartphones and tablets has transformed social interactions among teenagers, with concerns about the decline of in-person connections and the prevalence of online socialising.

As technology continues to evolve, parents, guardians, and school staff are faced with the ongoing task of finding a balance between digital engagement and real-world experiences for their children. Whether through setting boundaries, fostering open discussions, or encouraging alternative activities, there are ways to navigate the digital minefield with a focus on promoting healthy screen habits and overall well-being for children.