MAY 2026
- Parent Line
- Apr 30
- 4 min read
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Giving Screen Time a Time-Out: Helping Keiki Build Healthy Habits
In today's world, screens are everywhere. Phones, tables, TVs, and computers have become part of daily life for many families. While technology can be helpful for learning and connection, too much screen time can impact a child's development, sleep, and overall well-being. Giving screen time a time out does not mean eliminating it completely. It is about creating a healthy balance that supports your child's growth.
Why Limiting Screen Time Matters
Excessive screen use has been linked to challenges with attention, sleep, and emotional regulation. Young children especially learn best through hand-on-play, face-to-face interaction, and exploring the world around them. When screens take up too much time, these important experiences can be reduced.
Signs It Might Be Time for a Rest
Difficulty turning off devices or frequent tantrums when screens are removed.
Trouble sleeping or staying asleep.
Less interest in play, reading, or family interaction.
Increased irritability or mood changes.
If you notice these signs, it may be time to gently rest your child's screen habits.
Simple Ways to Give Screen Time a Time Out
Set Clear Limits
Create daily screen time boundaries that work for your family. Consistency helps children know what to expect.
Create Screen Free Zones
Keep devices out of bedrooms and away from the dinner table. This encourages better sleep and more meaningful family connection.
Replace, Not Just Remove
Offer fun alternatives like outdoor play, arts and crafts, reading, or family games. Kids are more receptive when they have something engaging to do instead.
Be a Role Model
Children learn from what they see. Limiting your own screen time shows them how to build healthy habits.
Use Screens with Purpose
When screens are used, choose educational or interactive content and watch together when possible. This turns screen time into a shared experience.
Finding Balance Not Perfection
Every family is different, and screen time does not have to be all or nothing. The goal is to create a balanced routine where screens do not replace sleep, play, or connection. Small changes can make a big difference over time.
Supporting your 'Ohana
Giving screen time a time out is really about making space for creativity, connection, and growth. By setting gentle boundaries and staying consistent, you are helping your keiki build lifelong healthy habits.
'Ohana Safety Tip - Health & Wellness
Small steps each day can make a big difference for your ʻohana.
Keep up with regular check ups and vaccinations.
Wash hands often to help prevent illness.
Stay home when feelings sick to protect others.
Keep a basic first aid kit at home and in your car.
Books We Love This Month
Screens Away, Time to Play!
By: Kailan Carr
Whatever the Weather We're in This Together
By: Jessica Braithwaite
The Very Hungry Caterpillar
By: Eric Carle
'Ohana Activity: Kite Day
Head outside to a park or open field and spend time flying kites together!
How to Do It
Bring a kite or make one at home using simple materials. Find an open space with a nice breeze.
Let keiki take turns flying the kite and running with it.
Make It More Fun
Decorate your own kite before heading out. Have a mini picnic or snacks afterward. Turn it into a challenge like “who can keep it up the longest”. Play music and make it a full ʻohana outing.
Why It’s Great
Encourages active play and movement. Helps build coordination and patience. Gets everyone outdoors and enjoying fresh air. Creates fun, memorable bonding time.
A simple way to unplug and enjoy the day together. 🌈
Upcoming Workshops
Safe Sleep Summit
We’re excited to invite you to join us for the upcoming in-person Choose Safe Sleep Summit on June 5th at Windward Community College, sponsored by the Hawaiʻi State Department of Health, Maternal Child Health Branch.
This year’s summit will bring together parents and caregivers, healthcare providers, community health workers, and organizations from across Hawaiʻi to connect and learn.
If you’re traveling from a neighbor island, limited travel scholarships to help cover airfare and a rental car may be available. Please note that scholarships are not guaranteed. Priority will be given to parents and caregivers, community health workers, staff from organizations with annual budgets under $500,000, and staff from organizations that are hosting a resource table.
Who Should Attend:
This summit is designed for individuals and organizations serving communities across Hawaiʻi. We welcome those engaged in maternal and child health, family support, and community care, including:
Parents and caregivers
Community health workers
Health educators
Medical professionals
First responders
Child welfare professionals
Home visitors
Social workers
Social service providers
What to Expect:
Hear from those with lived experience
Connect with partners and explore resource tables.
Learn practical ways to use the new Safe Sleep Hawaiʻi messaging.
Join breakout sessions on topics like safe sleep products, environmental barriers, and community-based approaches.
Enjoy lunch and music.
