Screen Time: Are you controlling your teen’s phone usage effectively?

When you believe your adolescent has spent enough time on his phone, you respond by...

Physically removing your teen’s phone from his room before he goes to bed. Don’t return the device until after school the next day.

Reminding him of the cell phone rules you’ve previously established. You like to be consistent.

Creating worthwhile diversions to increase the amount of time he’ll want to spend off his phone

Making sure he feels guilty. A little shame can’t hurt.

OK, but what about the benefits of teens using phones? Cell phones help children:

Fit in with peers.

Not have to learn math.

Ignore boring teachers.

Improve communication with parents.

The best way for parents to set a good digital example is by:

Not letting your child see you using your phone. Only scroll through social media feeds behind closed doors or after your teen goes to bed.

Reminding your teenager that rules are for children not adults.

Pretending you’ve had conversations with other parents about setting the same limits despite never discussing such policies with other families.

Being their most reliable role model. Just as we teach our children to safely cross the street or drive a car, parents must also demonstrate the proper use of smartphones.