We all do it, check our phones while waiting for dinner, scroll through emails on the couch, or sneak a quick glance at a message during story time. Technology has become part of everyday life, but new research reminds us that our children are watching, and learning, how we use it.
In 2025, Australians are spending an average of over 6 hours per day in front of screens. While this includes work and essential online tasks, much of it overlaps with family time. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, more than one in five children aged 5–14 are spending 20 hours or more per week on screen based activities. And it’s not just about kids on iPads, the average Aussie parent clocks around 5.8 hours of screen time daily, often during hours their children are present.
But here’s the key: children, particularly those under 10, don’t just watch screens, they watch us. Whether it’s checking the weather or scrolling through social media, our digital habits teach children what is “normal” in everyday life.
What the Research Shows
In a recent Telethon Kids Institute study, researchers found that excessive parent screen time, referred to as “technoference”, can reduce the quality of adult child interactions by as much as 1,100 words a day. For toddlers and preschoolers, that’s a significant drop in language exposure, and over time, it can lead to slower vocabulary development, behavioural issues, and reduced attention spans.
Meanwhile, almost half (49%) of Australian children under 2 are already interacting with smartphones. As these early years are vital for brain development and emotional regulation, our digital choices at home have lasting effects.
Even older children aged 5 to 12 are heavily influenced by the example set by adults. If a child sees a parent reach for their phone in every quiet moment, they quickly internalise that boredom must be filled with a screen. This can reduce opportunities for creativity, problem solving, and independent play.
Why It Matters: Children learn far more from what we do than what we say
If we ask our children to put down their devices while we’re glued to our phones, the message is mixed. But if we model balance, intentionality, and moments of screen free connection, our children are more likely to do the same.
The good news is that even small shifts in our digital behaviour can make a big impact. You don’t have to go tech free, just more tech aware.
What You Can Do
Here are some simple ways to reduce technoference and create stronger connections at home:
• Create phone free moments during the day, like mealtimes, school pickups, or bedtime routines. These pockets of connection become meaningful rituals for children.
• Use “Do Not Disturb” features or app timers to limit interruptions during quality time with your child.
• Narrate your own screen use. If you’re checking the weather or replying to a message, say so. “I’m just checking the weather for tomorrow’s picnic, then I’ll be right with you.” It helps children distinguish between purposeful and passive screen time.
• Designate a screen spot. Try to keep screens in one area of the house instead of having them everywhere, this reinforces the idea that not all moments need digital company.
• Engage with your child’s screen time. If they’re watching something, watch with them when you can, ask questions, and turn it into a conversation. Shared viewing can still be connecting.
A Lasting Message
Technology isn’t going away, and that’s not a bad thing. Screens can connect, educate, and entertain. But when they begin to replace conversation, reduce play, or interrupt presence, it’s worth reassessing our habits.
By modelling balanced screen use, we give our children a roadmap to follow. We show them how to be present, how to manage boredom, and how to engage with the real world.
So next time you reach for your phone, ask yourself, is this moment better spent being here? Chances are, the answer will be yes, and your child will notice.
