Dear STM Families,
“Just five more minutes!” Five becomes fifteen, and suddenly turning off a game feels like negotiating an international peace treaty. Sound familiar?
Screens help children learn, create, and connect. But how long they use them matters, as do what they watch, whom they interact with, and what screen time may be replacing. The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages families to consider content, healthy limits, and a balance of activities.
Faith and Family Balance
Our Catholic faith reminds us that every person is made in the image of God and deserves our love and attention. When we put a device aside to listen, pray, or spend time together, we make room for the people God has entrusted to us.
This reflects Magnifica Humanitas: nurturing the dignity and growth of the whole person. It also gives us a chance to practice temperance,enjoying good things in the right way. Yes, adults are included in this lesson!
Four Ways to Find Balance
- Protect mealtimes. Put devices away and enjoy a conversation together.
- Keep bedtime peaceful. Try a screen-free wind-down beginning about an hour before bed.
- Choose thoughtfully. Encourage creative, age-appropriate activities and set limits that fit your child and family.
- Make room beyond the screen. Enjoy play, reading, prayer, hobbies, and time with friends. Parents and caregivers can model balance, too.
Try This at Home: The Screen-Free Family Challenge
Choose an hour this week when everyone puts away recreational screens. If an hour feels difficult, start with a shorter time. Play a game, take a walk, cook, pray, or simply talk about your day.If someone asks, “Where’s the Wi-Fi?” remind them that the best family connections don’t require a password!
For more ideas, visit the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Family Media Plan.
Coming Next Week: “You Have 642 Friends? But Who Really Knows You?” A look at online friendships and the meaning of belonging.