Screen Time and Friendships: How to Encourage Real-World Connections

Whether it’s a phone, tablet, or gaming console, screen time has become as essential as, well, breathing. But while a bit of screen time is part of modern life, too much can get in the way of building meaningful, real-world friendships. So how do we ensure that, even in a world dominated by devices, our kids are still making those important face-to-face connections?

Set Screen Time Limits That Actually Work

We get it, prying the phone from their hands is like pulling teeth. Set some clear limits—no screens at dinner, no screens after bedtime. When the tech is off, they’ll have to engage with real people. Imagine that!

Get Them Out of the House

Getting kids off screens isn’t easy, but offering something more interesting works wonders. A trip to the park, a game of catch, or even a simple walk gets them out of the digital world and into the real one. Plus, you get some fresh air too.

Organise Playdates (And Actually Stick to Them)

Kids need to play—not just sit side by side with a controller. Set up a playdate where they can run around, make up games, and actually interact with each other. Real friendships happen when they’re off the screen and in the moment.

"Play is the foundation of learning, creativity, self-expression, and constructive problem-solving. It's how children wrestle with life to make it meaningful."

– Susan Linn, Psychologist and Author

Be the Example

Kids learn by watching us, so if you’re always on your phone or glued to a screen, don’t be surprised when they do the same. Put down the devices, get off the couch, and show them what real connections look like. If you’re present in the moment, they’ll start doing the same.

At the end of the day, real-world friendships are what help kids build confidence, social skills, and emotional resilience. Too much screen time can get in the way, but with the right balance, your child can thrive both online and offline. So, take action now—get them off the screen and into the real world. It’ll make a bigger difference than you think.

DADDING IN ACTION

This week, make it a priority to organise some screen-free playtime. Get them out of the house, off the devices, and into a real-world hangout with friends.

RESOURCES:

Books:

1. "The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in Its Place" by Andy Crouch. A guide for families to balance screen time and nurture real-life connections.

2. "Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive (and Survive) in Their Digital World" by Devorah Heitner. Helps parents navigate screen time while ensuring children develop healthy social skills and friendships.

3. "How to Break Up with Your Phone" by Catherine Price. Provides practical steps for both adults and kids to reduce screen dependency and reconnect with the real world.