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How to Get Kids Off Screens (Without a Crisis)
Mis à jour leIn summary
To reduce or eliminate screen time for children:
- Set clear rules : screen-free zones and times.
- Take it slow : fewer hours each week.
- Offer attractive alternatives : crafts, painting, creative games, coloring clothes.
- Accompany the emotions : listen to the frustration, value the efforts.
- Establish new routines : family time, crafts, screen-free rituals.
The most important thing? Lead by example and move at your own pace. Every little step counts.
Screens are now part of our daily lives. Televisions, tablets, smartphones... children have access to them very early, sometimes even before they can read. And while these tools can sometimes be helpful, their excessive use is worrying more and more parents. How can we set limits without becoming conflicted? How can we offer alternatives that truly captivate a child used to cartoons or video games?
The truth is, there's no magic formula. But there are simple, step-by-step strategies for reducing (or eliminating) screen time gently , without frustration, and strengthening your bond with your child. In this guide, you'll find tips, mistakes to avoid, and, most importantly, tried-and-true activity ideas .
Why reduce or eliminate screens?
Limiting screen time in children is critical to their health, concentration, and development . The effects are now well documented by experts.
Impact on sleep
The blue light emitted by screens disrupts the secretion of melatonin , the hormone that regulates sleep.
According to a study published in the journal Pediatrics , children exposed to screens in the evening fall asleep an average of 30 minutes later than those who are not. The result: shorter, less restful sleep and often more irritability the next day.
Effects on concentration and cognitive development
Excessive screen time can reduce a child's ability to stay focused on a task.
Research from the American Academy of Pediatrics shows that children ages 5 to 7 experience more learning difficulties and a decline in sustained attention after spending more than two hours of screen time per day .
Screens often require immediate and rapid attention, at the expense of patience and perseverance .
The benefits of limited use
Reducing screens isn't about "removing something," it's about opening up available time . Fewer screens means more time for:
- Play freely and stimulate the imagination.
- Interact with family and friends.
- Create : painting, crafts, modeling clay, outdoor games.
- Rest and get back into a natural sleep rhythm.
💡 Did you know?
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends:
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends:
- No screens at all before 2 years old .
- For 2-5 year olds: less than one hour per day , preferably educational content.
- For 6-12 year olds: maximum 2 hours per day , with a balance between active leisure, sleep and social interactions.
Step 1: Establish a clear and progressive framework
The first step in reducing screen time isn't to eliminate it all at once, but to establish a clear and understandable framework . Abrupt prohibitions often lead to frustration and conflict. Instead, explain to your child why it's important to limit screen time and offer simple, age-appropriate rules.
Explain rather than prohibit
A child is more likely to accept a rule when they understand its meaning. Talk to them about the effects of screens on sleep or vision, using simple words. Emphasize the positive: "Less screen time means more time to play, draw, or be outside."
Set simple and realistic rules
- Screen-free zones : no screens at the table or in the bedroom.
- Screen-free time : at least 1 hour before bedtime.
- Adapted durations : respect short times, adjusted to age.
Create family rituals
A framework works best when it's shared by the whole family. Establish regular screen-free times: a bedtime story, a board game after dinner, a creative activity on the weekend. These habits quickly become reassuring benchmarks for the child.
Examples of simple rules by age group
| Age | Suggested rules |
|---|---|
| 2-5 years | No more than 1 hour per day, never during meals, no screens before bedtime. |
| 6-9 years old | Maximum 1.5 hours/day, no screens in the bedroom, split screen time (cartoon or short game). |
| 10-12 years old | Up to 2 hours/day, with breaks, no social media without parental supervision, rules shared as a family. |
👉 These guidelines are basics suggested by pediatricians, but each family can adapt them to their own pace and daily life.
Step 2: Offer attractive alternatives
Reducing screen time isn't enough: you also need to give your child activities that capture their attention . And the good news is that boredom can be a powerful catalyst for creativity. When the screen disappears, children spontaneously turn to free play, imagination, and creation .
Concrete ideas to replace screens
- Manual activities & crafts : cutting, gluing, small objects to build or decorate.
- Creative and sensory games : painting, modeling clay, tactile activities that stimulate the senses.
- Original supports : clothing or accessories to color to proudly wear your creation.
Manual activities
More than 250 fun and accessible craft ideas to keep children busy away from screens.
See the DIY kits
Painting for children
Paint sets suitable for little hands to express your creativity independently.
Discover our paintings
Coloring clothes
Customizable pajamas and accessories for an original activity and unique clothing.
See the clothes to colorStep 3: Manage frustration and support change
Reducing screen time isn't always easy: for a child, it's a real change in habits. It's therefore normal for them to express frustration or even anger. Rather than denying these emotions, it's essential to acknowledge and welcome them. A simple "I understand that you're disappointed" already helps show the child that their feelings matter.
Use positive reinforcement
Every effort deserves recognition, no matter how small. If your child agrees to do an activity without a screen, take the time to congratulate them: "You played really well on your own today" or "Well done for your painting, you really applied yourself." This type of recognition reinforces motivation and creates a positive association with new activities.
JOY Tip!
Turn success into a moment of pride : Display your child's painting on the wall, take a photo of their creation, or organize a small "family exhibition." This recognizes their effort and makes them want to do it again.
Lead by example
Children imitate what they see. If you ask your child to spend less time in front of screens but you're scrolling on your phone at the same time, the message becomes contradictory. Limiting your own screen time as well, especially during mealtimes or shared moments, reinforces consistency and makes it easier for your child to adhere.
Mistakes to avoid
Reducing screen time is a positive step, but some approaches can make the process more difficult. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid:
- Abolishing all at once and without explanation Going from "everything" to "nothing" overnight risks creating frustration and opposition. It's better to reduce gradually and explain the reasons for the change.
- Using screens as a punishment or reward Associating the screen with a reward ("you'll have 30 minutes if...") or a punishment reinforces its appeal and can create a dependency relationship. Experts recommend avoiding this type of leverage.
- Neglecting Family Consistency If parents keep their phones or tablets on during mealtimes, it will be difficult for children to understand why they need to go screen-free. Consistency across the family is essential for establishing new habits.
Quick FAQ
From what age are screens not recommended?
Experts, including the WHO, recommend zero screen time before the age of 2. After that, screen time should remain very limited and accompanied by an adult. Before the age of 5, it is best to focus on manipulative activities, reading, and free play.
How much time per day for a 5, 8 or 12 year old child?
- Around 5 years old: maximum 1 hour/day of suitable content, never before bedtime.
- Around 8 years old: up to 1.5 hours/day , always supervised by a parent.
- Around 12 years old: 2 hours/day maximum , with clear rules (breaks, no screens at the table or in the bedroom). These guidelines are indicative: each family can adjust according to their own pace and needs.
How to react if the child constantly demands something?
Remaining firm but empathetic is essential. Avoid giving in to "get some peace": this reinforces the reflex to demand. Calmly explain the rule and offer an immediate alternative (game, creative activity). Many parents find it helpful to plan an activity box in advance, as some Joy! creative boxes do, to keep their child occupied without a screen.
What are the signs of excessive screen use?
Irritability when the screen is removed, disinterest in usual games, sleep disturbances, or a decline in academic performance. In this case, it is advisable to gradually reduce screen time and discuss it with a healthcare professional if necessary.
How to make “screen-free time” more attractive?
By transforming it into a positive moment rather than a punishment. Offer an activity that captures attention: crafts, painting, family play, shared reading. Children are often more inclined to cooperate when they feel that screen-free time rhymes with fun and interaction . It is with this in mind that Joy! develops its creative boxes: to offer simple and fun alternatives.
Should we completely eliminate screens?
Not necessarily. The idea isn't to ban them, but to find a balance . Screens can have educational value if used in moderation and with adult supervision. What matters is preserving sleep, family time, and creativity.
