Getting kids to put down their phones can feel like an impossible mission.
They’re attached to them like glue — and hey, so are adults a lot of the time — but there’s a whole world outside of their devices. Instead of just saying, “Get off your phone,” try these creative and engaging strategies to encourage a healthier balance with technology. They might fight you on it at first, but they’ll eventually realise it’s a good thing (here’s hoping, anyway).
1. Create a family phone-free zone.
Designate certain areas of the house, like the dining table or bedrooms, as phone-free zones for everyone. Lead by example by putting your own device away in these spaces. These zones help create opportunities for genuine connection and meaningful conversations with your family.
2. Set up fun phone-free challenges.
Make it a game by challenging everyone to go without their phones for a set amount of time, with small rewards for the winner. Whether it’s dinner without checking notifications or a whole afternoon unplugged, these challenges can make the process fun and rewarding. Turning it into a friendly competition can motivate kids to stay engaged and focused on the challenge.
3. Encourage hobbies that keep their hands busy.
Source: Unsplash Introduce activities like painting, cooking, gardening, or building models—anything that keeps their hands and minds engaged. When kids are immersed in something creative or hands-on, they’re less likely to reach for their phones out of boredom. These hobbies can also help them discover new interests and develop valuable skills.
4. Plan family tech-free outings.
Source: Unsplash Organise trips to places where phones aren’t needed, like nature trails, beaches, or amusement parks. Make a pact to leave devices in the car or at home. Spending this time together creates lasting memories and strengthens family bonds without distractions.
5. Introduce a “phone hotel.”
Set up a box or basket where everyone, including adults, drops their phones during certain times of the day. Label it as the “phone hotel” and let kids “check in” their devices for some downtime. Being more playful about it can help normalise breaks from technology without making it feel like a punishment.
6. Create a tech schedule.
Source: Unsplash Work together to set specific times for phone use, like after homework or during designated breaks. Having a schedule helps kids know when it’s okay to be on their phones and when it’s time to focus on other activities. A bit of structure can reduce arguments and create a balanced daily routine.
7. Offer alternatives for relaxation.
Source: Unsplash Sometimes kids turn to their phones simply because they don’t know how to unwind without them. Provide options like books, puzzles, or relaxing music. Teaching them healthier ways to decompress encourages lifelong habits for managing stress effectively.
8. Make screen-free time a family tradition.
Source: Pexels Establish weekly traditions like board game nights, movie marathons, or cooking meals together without screens. When these moments become something to look forward to, kids are more likely to embrace them without missing their phones. Consistent traditions also create a sense of stability and anticipation for quality family time.
9. Teach them about mindful phone use.
Help kids reflect on how much time they’re spending on their phones and how it makes them feel. Apps that track screen time can be eye-opening and lead to conversations about healthier habits. Encouraging mindfulness helps them build self-awareness and take control of their screen use proactively.
10. Involve them in household tasks.
Invite kids to help with cooking, organising, or fixing things around the house. Not only does this pull them away from their phones, but it also gives them a sense of accomplishment and teaches life skills. Sharing these tasks as a family can also make them feel included and valued in the home.
11. Set phone-free goals together.
Work with your kids to set achievable goals, like “no phones during meals” or “30 minutes of reading before bedtime.” Celebrate when these goals are met to reinforce positive habits. Recognising their efforts encourages them to take pride in sticking to the goals you’ve set together.
12. Encourage real-life social time.
Help your kids organise hangouts with friends where phones aren’t the focus. Suggest activities like playing sports, doing crafts, or having a picnic. These interactions show them the value of face-to-face connections and help build stronger, more meaningful relationships.
13. Be a role model.
Kids are quick to pick up on what adults do, so show them how to manage phone use by modelling good habits yourself. Put your phone away during conversations, family meals, or downtime. Demonstrating healthy habits helps set the tone for the entire family’s approach to technology.
14. Introduce tech-free hours before bed.
Establish a wind-down routine where all devices are put away an hour before bedtime. Use this time for quiet, relaxing activities like reading or talking as a family. Creating a calming evening routine promotes better sleep and a healthier mindset for the day ahead.
15. Focus on the positives of unplugging.
Instead of framing it as “less screen time,” talk about what they gain by unplugging, like better sleep, more energy, or time for hobbies they enjoy. Highlighting the benefits helps them see phone-free time as a positive choice rather than a restriction. By doing this, you reframe the conversation around growth and possibilities.
