Rogers’ Screen-Time Initiative Sparks Cautious Optimism
The telecom provider Rogers recently announced a program aimed at reducing screen time for young people, and parents along with digital-wellbeing experts are calling it a meaningful first step. While no single solution will instantly reset daily habits, the plan signals a growing recognition that managing youths’ digital lives requires structured, evidence-based approaches.
Why This Matters for Tweens and Teens
Moderating screen time has become one of the most persistent challenges for families with children in the tween and teen years. Toronto mom Andrea Chrysanthou recalls how the pandemic reshaped daily routines, noting that many adolescents spent more time online for school, social connection, and entertainment. “Those kids grew up online,” she explains, “and balancing that with real-world activities is increasingly difficult.”
Experts point to several reasons why a formal program can help. Structured guidelines can provide a predictable framework for households, reducing power struggles and creating consistent expectations. In addition, official programs can offer resources for parents, such as time-management tools, in-app reminders, and school-community collaboration that supports healthier digital habits beyond the home.
What a Useful Program Looks Like
For a screen-time initiative to be effective, it should combine practical steps with ongoing support. Key elements parents often look for include:
- A clear, age-appropriate definition of reasonable screen-time limits, with room for flexibility during important events or assignments.
- Parental controls and family-friendly software that are easy to use and don’t create extra friction at bedtime or during study time.
- Educational resources for teens about the impact of excessive screen use on sleep, mood, and concentration.
- Collaboration with schools and community organizations to align messages about healthy digital citizenship.
Rogers’ approach is expected to emphasize accessibility and practical support for families, rather than punitive measures. By offering guidance that fits into ordinary weekday routines, the program could help reduce resistance and increase adherence among youths who might otherwise push back against limits.
How Parents Can Align with the Program
Parents don’t have to reinvent the wheel; they can integrate professional recommendations with their own family rules. Here are steps families commonly find effective:
- Establish a “screen-time contract” that is discussed openly with children and revisited monthly.
- Set consistent routines around homework, meals, and sleep to minimize late-night usage.
- Use technology thoughtfully—tools like app timers, “focus” modes, and designated charging stations help create boundaries without micromanagement.
- Encourage non-digital activities that build social and physical wellness, such as sports, clubs, or volunteering.
What Experts Say About Long-Term Impact
Experts caution that a single program cannot solve all digital-behavior challenges, but it can seed healthier patterns that last beyond adolescence. Dr. Lina Patel, a child psychologist, notes that the real value lies in the consistency and education surrounding screen use. “Sustainable change comes when families have practical tools and ongoing support,” she says. “ teens must feel empowered, not policed, to take charge of their own media consumption.”
Canada’s unique landscape—with a robust public-sphere emphasis on healthy media literacy—means programs like Rogers’ could be integrated with school-based curricula and community resources. When families see a clear pathway to balanced screen use, attendance at virtual classes, participation in extracurriculars, and sleep quality can all improve.
Looking Ahead
As screen-time conversations continue to evolve, Rogers’ initiative may serve as a template for other providers and policymakers. The success of any program will hinge on its accessibility, relevance, and adaptability to different family circumstances. If parents and experts agree, the emphasis on practical support and collaborative resources could mark a constructive turning point in how we guide youth toward healthier digital habits.
