Set clear, simple screen rules before the school holidays, RMIT expert advises

# What parents should do before the holidays Families should discuss and agree on screen-time expectations before the school holidays begin. Dr Elise Waghorn of RMIT University recommends a practical approach: set simple boundaries around when devices can be used and when they should be put away. The goal is balance, not a screen-free holiday.

# Why a pre-holiday conversation helps The break gives children more unscheduled time. Without agreed rules, device use can expand and start to crowd out sleep, physical activity and social time. A short conversation ahead of time creates shared expectations so everyone—children and adults—knows what to expect when routines change.

# Practical rules to consider

• Agree on specific device-free times, for example during meals. These rules should apply to adults too.
• Protect key activities: ensure screen use doesn't replace outdoor play, exercise, or family interactions.
• Keep rules simple and household-wide so enforcement is consistent.

# How national guidelines fit in

# Recent policy context affecting parents The NSW Government announced new school limits for device use that take effect in 2027: up to 15 minutes per day for Kindergarten to Year 2, 30 minutes for Years 3–4, and 45 minutes for Years 5–6. Secondary school limits will align with lesson time. That policy has put children's screen use back into the spotlight and prompted many parents to reassess home routines ahead of the school break.

# Parental habits matter Dr Waghorn highlights that parents need to consider their own screen habits. If a household expects devices to be away at the dinner table, adults should follow that rule. Children model adult behaviour, so consistent adult practice helps enforce household expectations.

# Avoid extremes

# Simple conversation starters

• Ask children what they want to do during the holidays and where screens fit in.
• Propose a short list of rules (meals, bedtime, outdoor time) and ask for their input.
• Agree on consequences and rewards that are clear and consistent.

# Bottom line A brief, practical discussion before the holidays and clear, household-wide rules will help teams of parents and children manage screen use in a way that protects sleep, activity and family time without aiming for unrealistic bans.