Sunshine or Screens? Helping Kids Find Balance This Summer

The summer holidays can feel like a welcome break – no school run, no rushing to get children up and out in the morning. Yet, for many parents, they can also bring a new kind of stress. Routines disappear, children need constant entertainment, and the challenge of juggling work and childcare can feel overwhelming. 

One question often comes up during this time: screens. How much is too much? What’s acceptable, and what isn’t? There are so many differing opinions, and while research into the effects of screen time is growing, there is still a lot we don’t know. Arguments exist both for and against – some well-evidenced, others based more on opinion. 

What seems clear is that, like most things, balance matters. Understanding what’s out there – the guidance, recommendations, and realities – helps us make choices that work for our own families. Sometimes, extra screen time is simply unavoidable. When parents have to attend a meeting or work from home, and childcare isn’t an option (or doesn’t suit a child’s needs, particularly if they’re coping with the effects of trauma), screens can become a temporary ally rather than the enemy. 

One of our readers recently pointed us toward an article by Safety Detectives, which explores both the benefits and risks of screen time and offers evidence-based tips. As we step into six weeks of summer, it’s worth taking a look. The more informed we are, the easier it is to work together to find a healthy rhythm for our children. 

It’s natural, as the article suggests, for screen time to rise during colder months. The challenge now is maintaining balance when the sun is shining and outdoor adventures beckon. How do we encourage that trip to the park over another hour on a device, especially when screens can feel so effortless – for children and adults alike? 

There’s no perfect formula, but perhaps the goal isn’t perfection. Instead, it’s about staying curious, staying flexible, and finding a balance that feels sustainable – for us and our children – over the summer ahead. 

Sunshine and screens

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