How much technology is too much for our kids? And how can we help them develop healthy habits in a world where screens are everywhere?
This week on the Home Education with Ease Podcast, I'm joined by children's author and mom of four, Rebecca Shinsky, for a conversation that I think every parent needs to hear!
Rebecca is the author of Techie Tess Takes a Rest and Bucktooth Becky and Her Silly Headed Siblings. Her mission is to help children develop confidence, self-worth, and healthy habits through meaningful stories.
We talked about the growing role technology plays in our children's lives, how screen time can affect family routines, and why it's so important to begin conversations about healthy technology habits while our children are young.
I even shared a personal experience with my own kids when I noticed how differently our morning went after allowing them to start the day watching television.
Rebecca shared how her family approaches delaying smartphones, setting social media boundaries, and creating opportunities for technology-free family time.
We also discussed something I think is SO important: Our kids are watching us!
If we're constantly checking our phones, responding to notifications, or scrolling through social media, what are we teaching our children about technology?
But this conversation isn't about eliminating technology altogether.
It's about helping our children understand that technology is a TOOL, not something that needs to consume their time, attention, or relationships.
From simple screen-free activities and family game nights to teaching digital citizenship and advocating for changes in schools, we shared practical ways families can be more intentional.
Whether your children are toddlers, elementary-aged, or teenagers, I hope this conversation encourages you to look at your family's technology habits and consider how you can create more opportunities for meaningful learning and connection.
Join the Conversation:
Head over to the Home Education with Ease Facebook Group and answer this week's question:
- At what age do you think children should have their own smartphone?
Share your answers with the community, ask questions, or DM Christine!
Takeaways:
1. Start conversations about technology early.
Rebecca encourages parents to begin teaching healthy technology habits while children are young. Books, conversations, and everyday experiences can help children understand why boundaries matter.
2. Our children learn from what we model.
It's not just about how much time our kids spend on devices. We also need to consider our own habits. Putting our phones away, being present, and setting healthy boundaries ourselves can reinforce the lessons we're teaching.
3. Technology should be a tool, not the center of childhood.
Technology offers wonderful opportunities for learning, communication, and connection. But children also need time to play, move, explore, develop friendships, and enjoy activities away from screens.
4. Small changes can create meaningful family connections.
Keeping a deck of cards in your bag, playing games after dinner, taking walks, or scheduling technology-free time can provide alternatives to reaching for a device.
5. Be intentional about introducing smartphones and social media.
Rebecca shared how her family delays personal smartphones, discusses screen time regularly, and adjusts boundaries as her children grow. She also discussed how parents worked with her local school district to change its cellphone policies.
Quotes:
Christine Furman:
"I think the biggest factor there is that communication that we have with our children, right?"
Rebecca Shinsky:
"I think the biggest key is probably being deliberate about the choices that you're making"
Christine Furman:
"And again, it's that connection that we have as a family, you know."
Rebecca Shinsky:
"no, my attention's not for sale."
Rebecca Shinsky:
"As a parent, first look at yourself and what you're doing so that you can best model for your children"
Resources & Links:
Connect with Christine:
Connect with Rebecca Shinsky:
- Website: https://rebeccashinskyauthor.com
- Instagram: @rebeccashinskyauthor
- Children's book: Techie Tess Takes a Rest
- Children's book: Bucktooth Becky and Her Silly Headed Siblings
Additional resources discussed:
