Supporting Health Screen Time
The eSafety Commissioner provides valuable advice to help families achieve a healthy balance between online and offline activities. Key points include:
- There’s No One-Size-Fits-All: The right amount of screen time varies by age, content, and individual needs. Focus on quality and engagement, not just clock-watching.
- Monitor Wellbeing: Watch for signs such as social withdrawal, changes in sleep or school performance, and obsession with devices, as these may indicate unhealthy online habits.
- Open Communication: If you’re concerned, talk to your child about their online activities without judgement, and seek support from the school or relevant services if necessary.
- Promote Balance: Stay involved in your child’s digital life, play games together, and encourage a variety of interests and offline activities.
- Create a Family Plan: Work together as a family to set age-appropriate time limits, establish device-free zones (like mealtimes and bedrooms), and agree on clear rules for online activity.
- Utilise Technology Wisely: Use parental controls and apps to help monitor and manage screen time, and be transparent with your children about these tools.
Lead by Example: Reduce your own screen time and demonstrate healthy digital habits.
Access the full suite of advice and resources, including guidance on cyberbullying and parental controls, on the eSafety Commission’s website: