It is common for me to hear from families is that screen time has slipped away over the summer with more time at home.  With our kids heading back to the classrooms, now is a great time to reset the clock on screen time limits.  With swipes and clicks, devices are programing our children’s developing brains to expect immediate rewards.  I remind my patients that this lights up their particularly vulnerable brain pathways the same way that drugs do.  The evidence is clear that this leads to sleep disturbance, mood changes, and attention difficulties.  Excess screens are setting them up for reduced frustration tolerance, irritability and decreased learning.  We can expect a rebound in behaviors when we try to make change initially so consistency is the key until the new expectation has become normal.  I typically recommend sitting down to discuss policies on screens and putting it in writing so that everyone is clear.  Hopefully picking a time when everyone is fresh and calm will help them to understand that this is a discussion coming from a place of love rather than a punishment.  Using things like limits on internet routers or devices can be helpful in keeping everyone on track.  Your provider is a great resource for recommendations on how to find a healthier limit on screens for your child.  This is one clock reset that everyone can agree is good for your health and wellbeing.