Parents are increasingly turning to “screen time coaches” to help them foster a family environment free from excessive smartphone and tablet use. A recent article in the New York Times highlights this growing trend, revealing a clear desperation among families to disconnect from screens and engage in more traditional, unplugged activities. The simplicity of the solutions offered by these coaches is striking; leading experts suggest that families can reconnect by simply getting a pet or spending more time outdoors.
Simple Solutions for Reconnecting
As parenting consultant and child behavior expert Sarah Thompson puts it, “Just find a ball and throw it around!” This straightforward advice underscores the broader issue of how screen time negatively affects children’s well-being, from sleep disturbances to social interaction deficits. While many parents have tried various books and apps to manage screen use, they often find themselves battling their children’s frustration over curtailed gaming or texting habits.
The services of these parenting coaches typically range from $80 to $250 per hour, depending on location, and involve an average of 8-12 sessions focused on reducing screen dependency. The strategies are refreshingly uncomplicated. “Do you have a simple piece of fabric that can be turned into a cape?” Thompson often asks parents. “Perfect!”
The Importance of Physical Activity
Another expert, Jessica Lee, emphasizes the importance of physical activity for children’s independence. “Are there places where they can run around or jump rope?” she inquires. Although this advice may seem basic—and could even come off as somewhat patronizing—it appears to be what many parents need to reclaim their lives from digital distractions. A significant number of parents struggle to establish healthy tech boundaries, often because they themselves are just as hooked on screens.
Reflecting on Childhood
In Chicago, parenting coach Andrew Mitchell encourages parents to reflect on their own childhoods, when smartphones and tablets were nonexistent. “Try to remember what you did as a kid,” he suggests, noting the discomfort many feel at this exercise. Similarly, psychologist Lisa Brown connects the rise of screen time issues with a broader societal trend toward seeking quick fixes. “We become so accustomed to wanting easy solutions,” Dr. Brown remarks. “We want someone to just tell us what to do.”
Conclusion
Ultimately, parents might consider taking the straightforward advice found in the article—such as being more present, playing outdoors, or getting a dog—rather than spending hundreds on consultations.
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In summary, hiring screen time coaches is becoming a popular choice for families seeking to reduce their reliance on technology and reconnect with each other through simple, active play. While the solutions may seem obvious, the challenge lies in overcoming the digital habits that have taken hold.