Screens are a hard-to-avoid part of family life, but with a few simple guardrails, they don’t have to crowd out sleep, play, learning, or together time. Here are smart ways to strike a healthy balance for your preschooler.
Make screen time limited and predictable
- Set clear durations, like 20 minutes or one episode.
- Offer screen time only at certain times of day, and not right before school or bedtime.
- Use a timer so the device—not the parent—signals “all done.”
- Create screen-free zones, like bedrooms and the dinner table.
Choose content with intention
- Opt for slow-paced, story-driven shows or interactive apps that spark talking, building, or pretending.
- Avoid autoplay: pick one show or one app, then exit.
- Use device settings: turn off autoplay and notifications; set simple app limits.
Co-view and connect
- Sit nearby for the first few minutes. Ask questions like, “What’s happening?” “How did that character feel?”
- Bridge to real-world play. For instance, if a character builds a boat, offer cardboard and tape after the show.
Protect sleep and emotions
- Power down 60 minutes before bedtime to support winding down.
- If your child feels wired or moody after screens, shorten the next session and follow with movement (stretch, dance, or a quick walk).
Model what you want to see
- Narrate your choices: “I’m putting my phone away during dinner.”
- Try a regular family unplugging time. You could even pair this with Shabbat!
Offer alternatives
- A visible choice shelf with books, puzzles, blocks, and craft supplies beats vague instructions to “go play.”
Looking for screen-free activity ideas that match what we’re learning in class? Ask your Beth Emek teachers. We’d love to share!