Screens, Teens & School Holidays: Finding a Healthy Balance
School holidays can feel like a dream for kids — long days, friends online, gaming sessions, and plenty of free time to unwind. For many parents (especially those still working through the break), that dream can quickly turn into a familiar challenge: too much screen time, every day.
It’s completely understandable. Screens keep kids entertained, connected, and safely occupied at home. But finding the right balance can make school holidays smoother for everyone — kids and parents.
The good news? You don’t need to constantly monitor devices or battle over screens to build healthy digital habits.
Why Screens Aren’t the Enemy
Screens play an important role in modern family life. They’re how kids relax, socialise, and even learn. The key isn’t removing screens altogether — it’s using the tools already available to keep things balanced.
Most modern devices come with excellent built-in features that help families manage screen time without stress.
Built-In Tools That Make Screen Time Easier
Apple Screen Time (iPhone, iPad & Mac)
Apple’s Screen Time allows parents to:
Set downtime hours (such as overnight)
Limit time on specific apps
Send gentle reminders when daily limits are reached
Review how devices are being used
Google Family Link (Android & Chromebooks)
Google Family Link gives parents:
A clear overview of app usage
The ability to lock devices at bedtime
Controls to approve or block apps
Location and activity insights
Gaming Consoles (Xbox, PlayStation & Nintendo)
For keen gamers, consoles also offer:
Playtime limits
Scheduled downtime
Parental approval settings
Controls to prevent late-night gaming marathons
These tools work best when they’re used with kids, not just on them.
Screen Time Works Best as a Conversation
From years of supporting families, one thing comes up again and again:
older kids respond far better when screen time is a shared conversation rather than a strict set of rules.
Involving tweens and teens in decisions about:
When screens are used
How long feels fair
What matters during holidays (sleep, friends, downtime)
often leads to smoother days and far fewer arguments.
It doesn’t need to be formal — just open, honest chats about balance, sleep, and expectations.
Simple Habits That Make a Big Difference
One approach that works well for many families is treating screens as part of the day, not the whole day.
Some easy ideas:
A bit of outdoor time before gaming
Devices out of bedrooms overnight
A simple morning routine before screens switch on
These small habits add up and help kids naturally reset between online and offline time.
Be Kind to Yourself
Above all, go easy on yourself. School holidays are busy, life is full, and screens absolutely serve a purpose.
With a few tools, clear boundaries, and a positive approach, you can support healthier digital habits that work for your family — including your own.
Need Help Setting This Up?
If you’d like help setting up:
Apple Screen Time
Google Family Link
Gaming console controls
I’m always happy to help.
By Marleen Wilson
Founder, Tech Aid
Your Digital Safety Net