Many parents agree that managing screen time is one of the biggest challenges in modern parenting. While technology skills are essential today, helping children establish a healthy relationship with screens has become increasingly difficult. Studies repeatedly show why parents must be mindful of children's screen habits. A March 2025 study examining children aged 3 to 7 years found that screen exposure is closely linked with daily routines, including sleep and physical activity patterns. Researchers have associated excessive screen use with sleep difficulties, reduced physical activity, eye-related symptoms, and behavioral challenges. The concern arises when screens begin replacing sleep, movement, play, conversations, and family interactions.
Singapore's Screen Smart Campaign
Recently, Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong called on parents, schools, and communities to work together to build healthier digital habits among children. He launched a new campaign called "Screen Smart From The Start." Wong shared practical thoughts for parents, stressing that healthy digital habits should begin early in childhood. Here are key lessons parents can take away.
Protect Family Time from Screens
The Prime Minister stressed that families should create a "protected family time" where phones are kept away, such as during meals. "Family time should not become phone time," he said. Wong explained that moments meant for connection lose their value when everyone is distracted by screens.
Keep Smartphones Away from Children's Bedrooms
Wong advised parents to avoid allowing children to take phones into their bedrooms at night. "Preferably, if the child is young, no phones in the bedroom because you have no control over what the child is doing at night." Additionally, a phone-free bedroom can support better sleep routines and healthier habits.
Delay Giving Children Smartphones
One of his strongest suggestions was to "hold back from giving children smartphones for as long as possible." Wong says that if a child needs a phone mainly to contact parents, families can provide a basic phone without internet access before introducing a smartphone. The goal is not to completely prevent children from using technology, but to introduce it at a stage when they are better prepared to handle it responsibly.
Build Digital Responsibility Early
Since children will eventually use smartphones in the digital age, parents can help develop digital responsibility in children. Teaching children how to balance technology can help them become safer and more responsible digital users. Completely avoiding screens may not be realistic, but helping children build a healthy relationship with technology is possible and practical.
By following these guidelines, parents can navigate the challenges of screen time and foster a balanced digital lifestyle for their children.
