As parents, we know that screens have become a part of everyday life. From educational apps and online learning to social media and video games, technology offers many benefits. However, too much screen time can also impact a child’s mental health, emotional well-being, sleep, behavior, and social development.

That’s why Therapy Smarts is excited to invite families to our FREE Family Educational Training Series: Screen Time and Kids on Monday, July 27, from 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM at our Chapel Hill clinic.

This event is designed to provide parents and caregivers with practical tools, expert guidance, and a supportive space to discuss one of the most common challenges facing families today.

Why Children’s Mental Health Matters

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Children experience stress, anxiety, frustration, sadness, and social pressures just like adults do—but they often lack the skills to understand and express those feelings.

When mental health concerns go unaddressed, children may experience:

• Increased anxiety and worry
• Difficulty regulating emotions
• Trouble sleeping
• Social withdrawal
• Behavioral challenges
• Decreased attention and focus
• Academic struggles
• Lower self-esteem

The good news is that parents, caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals can work together to help children develop healthy emotional habits that support lifelong success. 

How Screen Time Can Impact Mental Health

Technology itself isn’t the problem. The challenge comes when screen use begins replacing activities that are essential for healthy development. 

Research has shown that excessive screen time may contribute to:

Reduced Face-to-Face Social Interaction

Children learn communication, empathy, and social skills through real-world interactions. When screens replace these opportunities, social development can suffer.

Sleep Difficulties

The blue light emitted from screens can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder for children to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Increased Anxiety and Stress

Older children and teens may experience pressure from social media, online comparisons, cyberbullying, or the fear of missing out (FOMO). Is it just me or sometimes you wish social media never happened? 

Decreased Physical Activity

Movement is critical for both physical and mental health. Excessive screen time often leads to more sedentary behavior. 

Challenges with Attention and Self-Regulation

Fast-paced digital content can make it more difficult for some children to focus, manage frustration, or tolerate boredom.

What Parents Can Do

Creating a healthy relationship with technology doesn’t mean eliminating screens entirely. Instead, it’s about finding balance.

Some simple strategies include:

• Establish screen-free family times.
• Keep devices out of bedrooms overnight.
• Encourage outdoor play and physical activity.
• Model healthy screen habits as parents.
• Prioritize face-to-face conversations.
• Monitor content and online activity.
• Create opportunities for hobbies, reading, and creative play.

Most importantly, keep communication open and talk regularly with your child about what they are watching, playing, and experiencing online.

Join Us for This Free Family Event

Our Family Educational Training Series will provide families with practical, real-world strategies to help children navigate today’s digital environment while supporting positive mental health.

Monday, July 27

4:30 PM – 6:00 PM

Therapy Smarts – Chapel Hill Clinic
1130 Weaver Dairy Road
Chapel Hill, NC 27514

Families Will Enjoy:

• Educational presentation on screen time and children’s mental health
• Practical tips and take-home strategies
• Sandwiches and refreshments
• FREE Silverspot Cinema movie tickets for the first five families to arrive
• Childcare available
• Open sensory gym for play

 Supporting Families Every Step of the Way

As Therapy Smarts celebrates its 10th anniversary of serving families across the Triangle, we remain committed to helping children thrive through our multidisciplinary pediatric therapy services, including Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, ABA Therapy, Mental Health Services, and Psychological Evaluations. Whether you are concerned about screen time, emotional regulation, social skills, developmental milestones, or behavioral challenges, our team is here to support your family.

We look forward to seeing you on July 27 as we learn, connect, and work together to promote healthier habits and stronger mental wellness for children. For more information, visit Therapy Smarts or call (919) 378-1340. Click the green button below to save your seat!