How to Manage Kids Use of Phones, Tablets, and Video Games

Electronics are everywhere phones, tablets, consoles, TVs and for kids, they’re incredibly tempting. While technology can be educational and fun.

Too much screen time can affect sleep, behavior, attention, and family life. The goal isn’t to completely ban electronics, but to teach kids how to use them responsibly.

Here’s how parents can stay in control while keeping peace at home.

1. Set Clear Rules Early

Kids handle boundaries better when they know exactly what’s expected.

Examples:

• No screens before school

• Homework and chores come before games

• Devices off one hour before bedtime

• No phones at the dinner table

Write the rules down and keep them consistent. Changing rules daily leads to arguments.

2. Use Screen Time as a Privilege, Not a Right

Electronics should be earned, not assumed.

Good strategies:

• Screen time unlocked after homework

• Extra game time for good behavior

• Devices removed temporarily for rule-breaking

This teaches responsibility and cause-and-effect.

3. Use Parental Controls (They Really Help)

Modern devices come with powerful tools—use them.

You can:

• Set daily time limits

• Block inappropriate content

• Restrict in-app purchases

• Schedule automatic shutdown times

Built-in tools like Apple Screen Time, Google Family Link, and console parental controls save you from constant arguing.

4. Be Consistent (Even When It’s Hard)

If you say “10 more minutes,” mean it.

Inconsistency teaches kids:

“If I argue long enough, I’ll win.”

Consistency teaches:

“Rules are real.”

Yes, there may be complaints at first—but they fade when kids realize the limits won’t change.

5. Offer Alternatives, Not Just Restrictions

Taking devices away without offering something else leads to boredom and frustration.

Encourage:

• Outdoor play

• Sports or hobbies

• Board games

• Reading

• Creative activities (drawing, building, music)

When kids are engaged, they think less about screens.

6. Lead by Example

Kids notice everything.

If parents are always on their phones:

• Rules feel unfair

• Messages lose power

Try having:

• Family screen-free times

• Phone-free meals

• Shared activities without devices

Respect earns respect.

7. Talk to Kids About Why Limits Exist

Instead of “Because I said so,” explain the reason.

For example:

• “Too much screen time affects sleep.”

• “Games are fun, but balance matters.”

• “Your brain needs breaks.”

When kids understand the why, cooperation improves.

8. Don’t Use Electronics as a Babysitter

It’s tempting—but overuse creates dependency.

Short-term peace can lead to:

• Tantrums when devices are removed

• Reduced attention span

• Less creativity

Use screens intentionally, not automatically.

9. Stay Calm During Pushback

There will be complaints. That’s normal.

What helps:

• Stay calm

• Don’t negotiate in the moment

• Enforce rules quietly and firmly

Emotional reactions give arguments power.

Enjoy the digital world safely

Controlling kids’ electronics isn’t about punishment—it’s about teaching balance, self-control, and healthy habitsthey’ll carry into adulthood.

Technology isn’t the enemy.
Lack of boundaries is.

With clear rules, consistency, and communication, parents stay in control—and kids still get to enjoy the digital world safely.