Questions to prompt discussion with students:

‍Parents and Teachers: View the full VIP Facilitation Guide Here

Elementary School Students (dialogue starters):

Identifying Feelings

• Can you think of a time when being  on your phone made you feel less happy or less energetic?

Responsible Use

• How can we use screen time tools and strategies to make our online experiences more positive and balanced?

Time Management

• How can setting timers and schedules help us manage screen time better? 

Middle School Students (dialogue starters):

Reflecting on Screen Time Impact

• Have you ever experienced negative effects of excessive screen time, such as difficulty sleeping or lower grades? 

Productive Screen Time

• What are some productive apps or online resources mentioned in the video that could help you learn new skills? 

Balancing Relaxation and Productivity

• The video discusses using screen time tools like ClearSpace. How can these tools help you relax on social media while staying focused and avoiding excessive usage?

High School Students (dialogue starters):

Accountability and Self-Control

• The video mentions apps like Freedom and Off the Grid. How can these apps help you maintain self-control and reduce screen time? 

Learning Through Technology

• The video suggests using apps for learning new skills. Can you share your experiences using educational apps or online resources to acquire new knowledge or hobbies?

Balance and Well-Being

• How can balancing screen time contribute to your overall well-being, including physical and mental health? 

More resources for parents, students, & educators

• ‍Balancing Video Game Screen time for Teens‍
• 50+ Tips to Limit Screen Time Without Conflict‍
• Using YouTube to Explore Colleges and Careers‍
• Positive Ways to Use ChatGPT for Students

Conclusion

Navigating screen time issues today is a huge challenge but finding balance is possible. There are definitely many negative consequences for excessive screen time, but in moderation, screen time offers many opportunities for teens to learn and develop their talents. By starting early, teens can set themselves up for a lifetime of balanced screen time use and reduce the potential negative impact.