Is This Raising 90's Kids?: Balancing Screen Time

If this is what is meant by "raising 90's kids," then I'm all in for it and am here to support you too with the work we do through Beyond the Screen Families.

Technology shapes the lives of children today in ways unimaginable just a few decades ago. Kids born in the 1990s grew up during the rise of the internet, video games, and mobile devices, and I'm speaking from experience in this blog post. It was an era that many are nostalgic for now. It was a time where technology was present, but didn't control our lives. It was a time when technology existed, but we lived without it too. It was a time when kids still had the opportunity to truly be kids. Now, as parents and caregivers, many of us face the challenge of raising children who have access to technology but the pull for it to control life is everywhere.

Child riding a scooter down the sidewalk.

Understanding the Digital Landscape for 90s Kids

Children today are considered digital natives, not because they completely understand the technological landscape, but because they have never known life without technology. Unlike the 90s kids who experienced technology as it emerged, today’s children are born into a world where screens are everywhere. Tablets, smartphones, and computers are tools for learning, entertainment, and socializing. This access offers incredible opportunities but also risks.

Key challenges include:

• Excessive screen time leading to sedentary habits

• Reduced physical activity and outdoor play

• Difficulty focusing on non-digital tasks-thanks Tik Tok for the rapid decrease in attention spans.

• Social skills impacted by less face-to-face interaction

  
  

Parents who grew up in the 90s remember a time when outdoor play was the norm and helping our children to dive into outdoor play and boredom versus constant screen usage is something that we can and should give our kids.

Encouraging Outdoor Play and Physical Movement

One of the best ways to counterbalance screen time is to encourage kids to spend time outside. Outdoor play supports physical health, creativity, and emotional well-being.

Ideas to promote outdoor activities:

• Schedule daily outdoor time, even if it’s just 30 minutes

• Explore local parks, nature trails, or playgrounds

• Organize family bike rides or hikes on weekends

• Encourage sports or group activities like soccer or swimming

• Create a backyard garden or outdoor project

• And allow for uninterrupted outdoor play time with no agenda or hidden activity

  
  

Physical movement helps children develop motor skills and reduces the risk of obesity and related health issues. It also provides a natural break from screens and stimulates imagination.

Teaching Kids About Balance and Healthy Habits

Balance means more than dividing hours between screens and outdoor time. It involves teaching children to recognize when technology is helpful and when it becomes a distraction.

Ways to build balance:

• Set clear but flexible screen time limits based on age and needs

• Model balanced behavior by limiting your own screen use around children

• Encourage tech-free zones or times, such as during meals or before bedtime

• Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of technology openly

• Help kids develop hobbies that don’t involve screens, like reading, drawing, or playing an instrument

  
  

By learning to manage their time and choices, children gain skills that support lifelong health and well-being.

Child planting seeds in garden, engaging with nature

Integrating Technology in Positive Ways

Technology itself is not the enemy. It can be a powerful tool for learning, creativity, and connection when used thoughtfully.

Tips for positive tech use:

• Choose educational apps and games that promote problem-solving and creativity and limit their use so that it doesn't take over real-life learning

• Use technology to explore interests, such as coding, music production, or digital art

• Encourage video calls with family and friends to maintain social bonds

• Balance passive screen time (watching videos) with active screen time (creating content)

• Monitor content to ensure it is age-appropriate and safe

  
  

This approach helps children appreciate technology as a useful resource rather than a default pastime.

Building a Supportive Environment for Healthy Growth

Raising balanced kids requires a supportive environment at home, school, and in the community.

Supportive strategies include:

• Collaborate with teachers and caregivers to align screen time and activity goals

• Create family routines that include shared meals, outdoor time, and tech breaks

• Encourage friendships that involve active play and shared interests beyond screens

• Provide access to safe outdoor spaces and community programs

• Celebrate achievements in both digital and physical activities

  
  

Children thrive when they feel supported in exploring a variety of interests and experiences.

Family outside together-mom and daughter playing rock-paper-scissors.

Final Thoughts on Raising Balanced 90s Kids Today

Raising children who have access to technology but don’t let it dominate their lives is a challenge worth embracing. Kids who love being outside and moving their bodies develop stronger minds and healthier habits. Teaching balance helps them navigate the digital world with confidence and resilience.

Start small by introducing daily outdoor time, setting clear screen limits, and modeling balanced behavior. Encourage curiosity both online and offline. The goal is to raise children who enjoy the best of both worlds and grow into well-rounded adults.