Resources for Parents of Teens

Keep teens safe by setting clear boundaries, promoting open communication, and encouraging them to be their best selves. 

1. Create a safe place for conversation. Don't judge, accuse, interrupt, or interrogate.
2. Be a good listener. When we try to solve their problems, they stop sharing.
3. Offer constructive feedback to help them shape their own ideas.

Find more communication strategies

In a world where screens are everywhere, from smartphones to tablets to televisions, it’s important to help adolescents develop healthy relationships with media. Excessive screen time can contribute to various health issues, such as poor sleep, reduced physical activity, and even emotional and behavioral challenges. A well-structured media plan can help your family balance screen time with other important activities like studying, outdoor play, and family interactions.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers valuable resources to help parents navigate these challenges, including the Family Media Plan, which can be a helpful tool for setting healthy boundaries.

Download the Building Healthy Digital Habits Tip Sheet

Descargue la Hoja de Consejos para Desarrollar Hábitos Digitales Saludables

Creating a Balanced Media Environment

The AAP’s Family Media Plan allows you to create personalized guidelines that fit your family’s values and lifestyle. Here are a few tips to get started:

• Set Limits on Screen Time: Decide how much time your teen can spend on screens each day. The AAP recommends limiting entertainment screen time to less than two hours per day.
• Designate Media-Free Zones: Establish areas in your home where screens are not allowed, such as the dining room or bedrooms, to encourage face-to-face interaction and better sleep.
• Encourage Media Literacy: Teach your adolescent to think critically about the content they consume. Discuss the impact of advertising, the importance of privacy, and how to recognize misinformation.
• Lead by Example: Model healthy media habits yourself. When your children see you balancing screen time with other activities, they’re more likely to follow suit.

Staying Engaged with Your Teen’s Media Use

In addition to setting rules, staying engaged with your adolescent’s media use is important. Here’s how you can stay involved:

• Co-View Content: Watch shows, play games, or explore apps together. This allows you to discuss what they’re watching and ensure the content aligns with your family’s values.
• Regular Check-ins: Have open conversations about what your teen is watching or doing online. Ask about their favorite apps or shows and what they find interesting or concerning.
• Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest trends in social media, apps, and digital content. Knowing what’s popular can help you guide your teen in making healthier choices.

Resources

• Kids & Screen Time: How to Use the 5 C's of Media Guidance
• Conversation Starters for Families of Tweens and Teens
• Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health
  • Online Health and Safety Resources

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that occur before age 18, such as abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction. These experiences can have a significant impact on lifelong health and well-being, increasing the risk of chronic disease, mental health issues, and behavioral problems. Preventing ACEs involves creating supportive, stable, and nurturing environments for children, promoting healthy relationships, and implementing community-based prevention strategies to reduce exposure to trauma and build resilience.

View the ACEs Infographic on VetoViolence.cdc.gov