Introduction: A practical first step in a digital dilemma
As screen time becomes a central concern for families, Rogers Communications has launched a program aimed at reducing youth screen time. The move has drawn a mix of cautious optimism from parents and experts who say that while it isn’t a silver bullet, it can be a meaningful first step in creating healthier digital habits for tweens and teens.
Why this program resonates with families
Moderating screen time is one of the biggest challenges for parents today, particularly for tweens and teens who grew up during the pandemic. In Toronto, a mother named Andrea Chrysanthou describes how online platforms became essential for staying connected with teachers, friends and family during lockdowns. “Those kids grew up online,” she notes, hinting at the difficulty of drawing firm boundaries when digital life is intertwined with school and social life.
The Rogers program is being viewed as a structured pathway to address that reality. By offering tools and resources designed to limit non-educational screen use, the initiative acknowledges a broad spectrum of online activities—from homework and communication to entertainment—and aims to help families reclaim balance.
What experts say about the initiative
Digital health specialists and child development researchers agree that the best approach to screen time is often a combination of education, practical limits and consistent routines. Dr. Maya Patel, a pediatric psychologist, notes that setting expectations around screen use can reduce conflict at home and improve sleep, mood, and attention. “The first step is to help families articulate what healthy screen time looks like for their unique situation,” she says, emphasizing collaboration rather than punitive measures.
Experts also caution that no single program can solve all issues. Screen time quality matters just as much as quantity. For instance, screens used for learning, creative projects or communication with loved ones can be beneficial, while excessive time spent on passive scrolling may have negative effects. The Rogers program’s potential success lies in offering clear guidelines, measurable goals and ongoing support for families navigating these choices.
Practical steps families can take now
In addition to any corporate program, several practical strategies are repeatedly recommended by researchers and clinicians:
– Create family media plans that specify rules for devices in common spaces, charging stations and screen-free times.
– Prioritize sleep hygiene by setting consistent bedtimes and removing screens from bedrooms.
– Encourage engaging offline activities such as sports, arts or community programs to provide a healthy balance.
– Model the behavior you want to see: parents who manage their own screen use set a powerful example.
– Use technology thoughtfully, leveraging parental controls and monitoring where appropriate, while maintaining trust and open dialogue with teens.
Addressing concerns and potential limitations
Critics worry about the possible stigma of opting into a company-led program, or about privacy implications of monitoring tools. It’s essential that any program respects family autonomy and data privacy. Transparent communication about what data is collected, how it is used, and who can access it will be crucial for sustained adoption. Additionally, experts stress that programs should be adaptable to different ages, cultural contexts and family routines rather than offering one-size-fits-all mandates.
Looking ahead: A collaborative path to healthier digital habits
The Rogers initiative appears aligned with a broader movement towards structured, supportive approaches to screen time rather than blanket prohibitions. When paired with counseling, school-based education and community resources, it can help families set realistic expectations and celebrate incremental progress.
Bottom line
For many parents, the Rogers program is a welcome signal that institutions recognize the realities of modern parenting in a connected world. While it may not be a flawless solution, it represents a thoughtful push toward healthier digital habits—one that families can adapt, evaluate and build upon as part of a longer-term strategy for their children’s well-being.
