Screen Time: Why It’s Totally Okay (And Why We’re Ignoring the Screen-Free Warriors)

We’ve all met them: those parents who claim, “Oh, we never let them watch screens.” Good for them, truly—but for the rest of us, screen time can be a lifesaver! Instead of feeling guilty or comparing ourselves, let’s get real about how screen time actually fits into everyday parenting—and why a little screen time sanity is something we should celebrate.

1. Quality Time Isn’t Measured in Screen Minutes

Let’s start with the truth: screens aren’t a parenting fail. In fact, they’re an essential part of modern life, like dishwashers or microwaves (can you imagine life without those?). Screens can be educational, fun, and a way for kids to unwind, giving us parents a breather to keep the household running. You know what really matters? Those genuine moments of connection, screen or no screen. Because let’s be honest—who’s counting the minutes when everyone’s happy?

2. Ignore the “Screen-Free” Elite

Every parent has that one friend who says they “never let their kids watch screens.” Great for them, but guess what? You don’t need to feel guilty for having a different approach. Screens, like everything else, are fine in moderation. Besides, most of us don’t have a team of nannies, endless crafts at the ready, and a schedule full of Montessori-perfect activities. So next time someone brags about their screen-free household, just smile and change the subject. You’re doing what’s right for your family, and that’s all that matters.

3. Focus on Quality Over Quantity

If you’re spending time choosing quality shows, educational games, or creative apps for your kids, you’re already winning. Whether it’s an animated show that teaches kindness or a game that builds problem-solving skills, quality screen time can be valuable and fun. And hey, if there’s a Bluey marathon some days, embrace it! We’re all trying to juggle life, and balance means flexibility, not a strict screen timer.

4. Using Screen Time for Parental Sanity

Screens can buy us precious time to make dinner, finish an email, or, dare we say, take a few minutes to ourselves. Kids get some fun, we get a breather—it’s a win-win. So yes, let them watch their favorite show while you take a break. Parenting isn’t about being perfect every second; it’s about finding moments of sanity that help us keep going.

5. Teach Healthy Screen Habits

Instead of worrying about screen time as “bad,” treat it like any other tool. Show your kids how to use screens with balance, and practice those boundaries together. Screen-free meals? Great! A half-hour of screen time while you finish chores? Perfect. Modeling balanced use shows kids that screen time isn’t the enemy—it’s just one part of life.

6. Be Kind to Yourself—You’re Doing Amazing

Let’s drop the guilt and trust our instincts. Parenting is tough, and every family is different. If a show gives you a break and lets you recharge, then guess what? That screen time is serving everyone. So take a deep breath, smile, and remember that you’re the best judge of what works for your family.

Life’s about balance, and so is screen time. Let’s embrace it without the guilt, laugh off the screen-free warriors, and remember that happy, healthy kids are the real goal. And if a little screen time here and there helps you get there? That's fantastic!