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Many parents today are concerned about how much time their children spend on their phones and tablets. The UK government has announced plans to help with this issue by making apps like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube unavailable by default for 16 and 17-year-olds during certain hours. Teens will still be able to use these apps if they choose, but features like auto-play videos and endless scrolling will be turned off. The goal is to help teenagers focus better, sleep more soundly, and spend more quality time with their families.

If you want to help your child cut down on screen time, it is important to start with small, realistic steps. Dr Jane Gilmour, a child psychologist, says that changing habits is always difficult, so it is best to make changes when everyone is calm, not during an argument. One simple idea is to have a special place in your home for devices and chargers. When it is time to put the phone away, it goes in that spot. This creates a routine and helps avoid fights about screen time.

Older children and teenagers often respond better when they are included in the conversation about screen use. Dr Maryhan Baker suggests talking openly with your child about the pressures of social media and why it is important to take breaks. You can say things like, 'I know you want to stay connected with your friends, and I understand that it is hard not to be online. ' Work together to find times during the day when your child can be off their phone. Parenting coach Olivia Edwards adds that having a strong relationship with your child makes it easier to set rules about screens. Taking an interest in what your child watches or plays online can also help build trust.

Screen time does not have to be all bad. It can be a chance for parents and children to learn together. You can ask your child how social media works and talk about why apps are designed to keep people watching. You can look at online content together and discuss whether it is true or not. This helps your child develop critical thinking skills and learn how to use the internet safely.

Children often copy what their parents do, so it is important for adults to set a good example with their own screen habits. Dr Maryhan suggests having light-hearted conversations about how everyone in the family uses their devices. Dr Jane points out that it is okay for kids to be bored sometimes. When they are not looking at a screen, they have time to think, imagine, and be creative.

Parenting in the digital age can be stressful, but Dr Tony Sampson from the University of Essex says parents should not panic. He explains that children and teenagers have brains that are good at adapting and learning new things. Social media does not actually make attention worse, but it does try to keep people engaged. Using technology in a positive way can help children learn, explore, and be creative.

If you are worried about your child's screen time, remember that you are not alone. Many parents are facing the same challenges and are looking for ways to help their children use technology in a healthy and balanced way.