News
October 12, 2025
How The Verge and our readers manage kids’ screen time
This week the Pew Research Center published a study about how parents managed screen time for their kids 12 and under. The results were not particularly surprising (or enlightening, if we're being honest). A full 90 percent of parents said their children watched TV, and 61 percent said their kids interact with smartphones at least [...]
**The Verge and Readers Share Strategies for Navigating Kids' Screen Time in the Digital Age**
A new study from the Pew Research Center is shining a light on a familiar battleground for parents: managing screen time for children aged 12 and under. While the findings themselves weren't groundbreaking, confirming what many already suspected, they underscore the pervasive presence of screens in young lives and the ongoing challenge for parents to find a healthy balance.
The Pew study revealed that a staggering 90 percent of parents reported their children watch television, and a significant 61 percent acknowledged their kids interact with smartphones with some frequency. This prevalence highlights the need for effective strategies to guide children's digital engagement.
The Verge, known for its tech-focused reporting, has also been exploring this issue, delving into the various methods parents employ to navigate this complex landscape. Beyond the statistics, the real story lies in the diverse approaches families are taking.
Many parents are implementing time limits, setting clear boundaries for how long their children can spend on devices each day. Others are focusing on content, carefully curating the shows and apps their kids can access, prioritizing educational or age-appropriate material. A common tactic involves designating "screen-free" zones, such as the dinner table or bedrooms, to encourage face-to-face interaction and restful sleep.
The Verge has also engaged with its readership, collecting firsthand accounts of how parents are tackling screen time management in their own homes. These shared experiences reveal a range of techniques, from using parental control apps to establishing family media contracts that outline agreed-upon rules and consequences. Some parents are leading by example, consciously reducing their own screen time to model healthy habits for their children.
The discussion also touches on the importance of open communication. Many parents emphasize the need to talk to their children about the potential risks and benefits of technology, fostering critical thinking skills and responsible online behavior. Ultimately, the goal is to equip children with the tools they need to navigate the digital world safely and thoughtfully. While there's no one-size-fits-all solution, the ongoing conversation and shared experiences offer valuable insights for parents striving to raise digitally savvy and well-balanced children.
A new study from the Pew Research Center is shining a light on a familiar battleground for parents: managing screen time for children aged 12 and under. While the findings themselves weren't groundbreaking, confirming what many already suspected, they underscore the pervasive presence of screens in young lives and the ongoing challenge for parents to find a healthy balance.
The Pew study revealed that a staggering 90 percent of parents reported their children watch television, and a significant 61 percent acknowledged their kids interact with smartphones with some frequency. This prevalence highlights the need for effective strategies to guide children's digital engagement.
The Verge, known for its tech-focused reporting, has also been exploring this issue, delving into the various methods parents employ to navigate this complex landscape. Beyond the statistics, the real story lies in the diverse approaches families are taking.
Many parents are implementing time limits, setting clear boundaries for how long their children can spend on devices each day. Others are focusing on content, carefully curating the shows and apps their kids can access, prioritizing educational or age-appropriate material. A common tactic involves designating "screen-free" zones, such as the dinner table or bedrooms, to encourage face-to-face interaction and restful sleep.
The Verge has also engaged with its readership, collecting firsthand accounts of how parents are tackling screen time management in their own homes. These shared experiences reveal a range of techniques, from using parental control apps to establishing family media contracts that outline agreed-upon rules and consequences. Some parents are leading by example, consciously reducing their own screen time to model healthy habits for their children.
The discussion also touches on the importance of open communication. Many parents emphasize the need to talk to their children about the potential risks and benefits of technology, fostering critical thinking skills and responsible online behavior. Ultimately, the goal is to equip children with the tools they need to navigate the digital world safely and thoughtfully. While there's no one-size-fits-all solution, the ongoing conversation and shared experiences offer valuable insights for parents striving to raise digitally savvy and well-balanced children.
Category:
Technology