If you’re a parent, long summer days may have you bracing for a familiar challenge — how to keep kids entertained and safe while screens become increasingly tempting. With these digital recommendations from Dr. Nidhi Garg, WellSpan Philhaven child and adolescent psychiatrist, summer can be a season of healthy digital habits and offline exploration.
Young children: Set clear screen time boundaries
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children aged 2 to 5 should have no more than one hour of screen time per day, ideally involving high-quality, interactive programming. But, this guideline can feel challenging during the more relaxing days of summer when parents may be tempted to kick back and loosen restrictions.
Dr. Nidhi Garg encourages parents to build a summer screen routine just like they would for meals or bedtime.
“Create a visual schedule for your child’s day,” Dr. Garg said. “Include play time, outdoor time, reading and yes — screen time. When kids know what to expect, they’re less likely to push back.”
Experts recommend prioritizing co-viewing when possible, so adults can reinforce learning or help children process what they see. If solo screen time is necessary, make sure to adjust parental controls on your child’s device so you can help limit what they’re watching.
Older children: Social media awareness
For tweens and teens, summer often means more freedom – and more time online. Whether it’s checking out the latest trends, checking in on friends’ summer plans or endless scrolling, older children are at greater risk of losing track of time and being exposed to content that affects their mental well-being.
“Social media isn’t all bad,” Dr. Garg said. “But it’s important for families to talk about boundaries and values — what’s okay to post, how to avoid negativity and when to unplug.”
Implementing a check-in once a week can help. Ask questions like:
· What are your favorite apps right now?
· Have you seen anything online that made you uncomfortable?
· How do you feel after spending time on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok?
Encourage device-free zones, such as mealtimes or family outings, and set a time when screens go off at least an hour before bed.
Summer considerations
“Consistency is a key component when implementing schedules and routines,” Dr. Garg said. “It reinforces the message that parents are serious about the established boundaries and shows they value their child’s well-being and understand the importance of setting healthy limits.”
Rather than battling screen time, try offering creative offline alternatives. A child interested in video games might enjoy playing a family board game, or a teen glued to social media might enjoy making short videos.
Libraries, museums and local parks often host summer activities that offer structure and enrichment that are free from Wi-Fi.
Put the electronics aways and join the Get Outdoors (GO!) scavenger hunt for a colorful summer adventure across central Pennsylvania. The program is open through Aug.2 in Franklin County. To learn more about the interactive program, readers may visit here GO! Franklin.
