In today’s digital age, screens are everywhere—from tablets and smartphones to computers and TVs. While technology offers incredible benefits for learning and education, many parents worry about the distractions it brings, especially the potential harm to their children’s development, attention span, and learning skills. So, how can you strike the right balance between books and screens? Here are some tips to help your child develop healthy reading habits while still enjoying technology in a balanced way.

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1. Set Clear Screen Time Limits

One of the most effective ways to ensure balance is by setting screen time limits, but in a wise way as we will see in this article. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children aged 6 and older have consistent limits on screen use, ideally no more than 1 to 2 hours per day of high-quality content. Studies show that excessive screen time can lead to decreased attention span, low sleep quality, and lower academic performance.

This makes sense, considering that much of the content available to kids on social media consists of shallow 15-second videos or games designed to create a constant desire for new gear. Children may feel that no matter how much effort they put in, it is never enough—they always need more. This cycle keeps them playing in the hope that someday they will be good enough to defeat all their virtual enemies, but that day never comes. Over time, this can lead to feelings of inadequacy, making children believe they will never be good enough at anything, no matter how hard they try.

2. Make Reading Part of the Daily Routine

Incorporate reading into your child’s daily schedule, just like meals and bedtime. Research from the National Literacy Trust indicates that children who read daily for at least 20 minutes are exposed to approximately 1.8 million words per year, significantly boosting vocabulary and comprehension skills. This demonstrates the power of good habits—small, consistent efforts lead to remarkable improvements over time.

3. Lead by Example

Children often imitate their parents’ behavior. If they see you reading, they’re more likely to pick up a book themselves. A study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that parental reading habits directly influence children’s literacy development and cognitive skills.

Show enthusiasm for books, discuss what you’re reading, and encourage family reading time to set a positive example. Parents need to align their actions with their words—if you want your child to read more but spend most of your free time on your phone or watching TV, they will conclude that screens, not books, are the best way to spend their time.

4. Use Technology to Support Reading

Not all screen time is harmful—many digital tools can encourage reading. E-books, audiobooks, and educational apps can enhance literacy skills and make reading more engaging. A study by the Joan Ganz Cooney Center found that interactive e-books can improve word recognition and reading engagement in young children, though traditional books still promote better comprehension and critical thinking.

If you provide your child with an e-book or an educational app on a tablet, make sure to enable “airplane mode” to eliminate notifications and other distractions.

5. Encourage Books on Topics They Love

If your child enjoys video games, movies, or cartoons, find books that match their interests. A report from Scholastic’s Kids & Family Reading Report states that 89% of kids ages 6-17 say their favorite books are the ones they choose themselves. Graphic novels, adventure stories, and non-fiction books related to their favorite subjects can make reading more appealing.

Since many kids love action, magic, and fantasy, I wrote my book, Johnny Rikkens’ Fantastic Worlds, to bring all of these elements together in one story—and kids are loving it!

6. Design a Cozy Reading Space

Create a comfortable reading environment that feels inviting. Studies show that a dedicated reading space encourages longer and more focused reading sessions. A cozy reading nook with soft pillows, good lighting, and a variety of books can make reading feel like a treat rather than a chore.

This makes sense—each area in a home is designed to serve a specific purpose. We don’t put ovens in bedrooms or showers in living rooms. A designated reading space signals to children that this is a special place—a place for books and imagination.

7. Plan Screen-Free Time Together

Encourage activities that don’t involve screens, such as outdoor play, arts and crafts, board games, and, of course, reading! Research from the University of Oxford suggests that limiting recreational screen time to under two hours per day is linked to better mental well-being and academic success in children.

This finding is not surprising. Humans developed their skills over thousands of years by exploring the real world, not a virtual one. The rapid shift in entertainment brought by technology happened too quickly for us to adapt. It’s reasonable to conclude that designated screen-free family time is essential for children’s development, reinforcing the idea that entertainment doesn’t have to be only digital.

8. Discuss the Benefits of Reading

Help your child understand why reading is important. Studies from the National Endowment for the Arts show that frequent readers score higher on cognitive tests and demonstrate stronger analytical thinking skills. When children realize that reading helps them better understand the world and express themselves more clearly, they will be more likely to engage with books willingly.

9. Let Them Choose Their Books

Giving children the freedom to choose their own reading material increases motivation. Whether it’s a comic book, a fantasy novel, or a how-to book, allowing them to pick what interests them fosters a lifelong love of reading. According to the International Literacy Association, children who choose their own books are more likely to become lifelong readers.

Screens can also serve as a bridge to books. Why not browse your favorite online bookstore with your child and let them choose their books? Read synopses aloud together and show that you care about their preferences. This helps them associate books with your encouragement and support.

10. Balance, Don’t Ban

The reality is that screens are now a permanent part of our lives, and they aren’t going away anytime soon. Instead of completely banning screen time, focus on creating a healthy balance. Encourage a mix of activities, including reading, outdoor play, and social interactions, to support overall development. Research from the Mayo Clinic suggests that a balanced approach to screen time—incorporating physical activity and reading—leads to better cognitive and emotional development.

By setting clear boundaries and making reading a fun and regular part of life, you can help your child develop a love for books while still enjoying technology in moderation. The key is balance—where both screens and books play a positive role in their growth and learning.

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