Before COVID, screen time was a rare event in our household. We’d enjoy an occasional family movie night or wind down with a show if we had a free evening — which, between school and activities, didn’t happen often. Even my boys, ages 10 and 13, only played video games occasionally, and there was little to no conflict over screens.

Fast forward to quarantine life, and suddenly it felt like we were living in a different universe. In those early days of lockdown, we threw most of our screen time limits out the window. After schoolwork was done, the devices came out — and stayed out. It helped to know that even the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) acknowledged this shift and updated its guidance to reflect the new, overwhelming reality families were facing.

Now, with many kids still learning remotely and technology being central to their education and entertainment, screen time is more than a parenting dilemma — it’s a daily reality. If you’re feeling uncertain about how to manage screen time in your home, you’re not alone. Every family is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Here are some tips that have helped our family — and may help yours — when it comes to navigating screen time during this unique season of life.

Adjust Expectations for an Unusual Time

We’re still navigating through a stressful and constantly changing season. Your “normal” parenting standards from pre-COVID days may not apply anymore — and that’s OK. Don’t compare your decisions today to the ideal circumstances of the past. Use expert guidelines as a starting point, not a hard rulebook. Give yourself the grace to adapt based on what your family needs right now.

Keep Some Boundaries in Place

Even though screens are more necessary than ever, it doesn’t mean all limits go out the door. Kids still need structure and boundaries. Decide what matters most to your family and create clear expectations. For example, you may require daily outdoor time, limits on certain types of content, or breaks between screen-based activities. Use parental controls, timers, and other tools to reinforce these boundaries and keep your child’s experience safe and balanced.

Consider Your Child’s Age and Stage

Younger kids need more hands-on structure and oversight, while older kids can often be given more responsibility. That said, even preschoolers are on Zoom these days. Use screens strategically—maybe to get work done or take a breather—but balance it with screen-free time whenever possible. Encourage breaks, outdoor play, and hands-on activities. And when your older child shows they can manage screen limits responsibly, offer a bit more freedom to help build that trust.

Not All Tech Is Created Equal

One of the most eye-opening lessons for our family: some tech is more problematic than others. In our case, the Xbox quickly became a source of arguments and tension. After some trial and error, we made the tough call to remove it — and the peace that followed was well worth it. Notice how your child responds to different platforms, games, or shows. Tailor your limits based on what’s helpful versus what’s harmful. That might mean more leniency with educational games or FaceTime, and tighter rules around other types of content.

Keep Mental Health Front and Center

Technology can be a lifeline—or a trigger. When used mindfully, it can offer rest for parents, connection for kids, and educational tools for everyone. But be aware of signs that screen time might be harming mental health: irritability, social withdrawal, sleep issues, or compulsive behavior. If needed, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. There are local and virtual resources available for both kids and parents.

Be Flexible When It Counts

While routines are helpful, life is unpredictable. Weather, school workload, your energy level — all of these can change your day. Give your kids a heads-up that some days will look different than others. Explain that screen time limits may shift depending on what else is happening. Consistency is important, but so is adaptability.

Raising Screen-Savvy Kids in a Screen-Filled World

Whether you have toddlers or teens, this is an opportunity to talk with your kids about healthy screen habits. Technology isn’t going anywhere. But with awareness, communication, and clear boundaries, we can raise thoughtful, responsible digital citizens — even during a pandemic.

By Guest Blogger Christine Murray*

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* Christine Murray is the Director of the UNC Greensboro Center for Youth, Family, and Community Partnerships and the Healthy Relationships Initiative. The HRI team is excited to partner with Triad Moms on Main on this blog series. In this series, we offer general guidance to relationship or family questions submitted by TMoM community members. If you’ve got a question to ask, please share it anonymously on the form here.