Technology & Screen Use

• Supporting balanced use of digital devices

• Encouraging fine motor and sensory alternatives

Occupational therapists (OTs) support children and families to manage the use of digital devices in a way that promotes balanced development. While technology can be a valuable learning and social tool, excessive or unstructured screen time can impact sleep, attention, physical health, social skills, and fine motor development.

Structured Screen Time

• OTs work with families to develop schedules and clear limits for recreational and educational screen use.

• Encourages predictable routines, e.g., limiting recreational screen time after school or before bedtime.

• Helps children prioritise device use for purposeful tasks, learning, or social connection rather than passive consumption.

Fine Motor & Sensory Alternatives

• OTs promote hands-on, tactile, and active experiences to balance screen use.

• Examples include: building with blocks, painting, threading, cooking, outdoor play, or sensory bins.

• These activities develop hand strength, coordination, sensory processing, and creativity, which screens alone cannot provide.

Posture & Ergonomics

• Advice on correct device positioning to prevent neck, shoulder, or wrist strain.

• Encourages frequent movement breaks to reduce sedentary time.

• Promotes awareness of body mechanics during screen use to support long-term musculoskeletal health.

Digital Literacy & Safety

• Supports children in understanding age-appropriate content, online safety, and privacy.

• Encourages purposeful engagement rather than passive scrolling, e.g., educational apps, creative tools, or guided games.

• Promotes self-regulation strategies for children who may become absorbed in screens, helping them switch to other activities.

Cognitive & Social Considerations

• OTs consider how screen use affects attention, focus, and learning.

• Helps children develop social skills online, teaching etiquette, turn-taking in games, and positive communication.

• Identifies screen-related triggers for dysregulation, anxiety, or overstimulation and provides strategies to manage them.

Integration into Daily Routines

• Screen use is incorporated into daily schedules alongside meals, schoolwork, play, and rest.

• Visual supports, timers, or reward systems can help children transition off devices smoothly.

• OT strategies help parents model balanced use, encouraging children to enjoy a mix of digital and non-digital activities.