Grandparents and Screen Time: Ditching the Devices

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

The challenge of screens for today’s grandparents

Did you have a close relationship with your grandparents when you were growing up? My grandmothers were both widows for most of my childhood. One of them lived with us, spoiling me with her cooking and baking. We loved watching MacGyver and I Love Lucy together. Watching television was something that brought us together. But that simple, 30-minute TV moment feels like a relic of the past.

Today, grandparent time and screen time look very different. Instead of one program, there’s an endless stream of YouTube videos, games, and shows designed to keep kids watching. Saying no can lead to meltdowns that leave you emotionally drained. What once felt like a blessing — a quiet child on a device — can quickly turn into a curse.

Why screens are so hard to resist

Keep in mind that Silicon Valley designed apps and games to be addictive. It’s not simply about willpower. Just as it would be impossible for your grandchild to have a giant bag of chips and eat only two, it’s nearly impossible for them to self-regulate their screen time. Screens trigger dopamine — the brain’s pleasure chemical — making kids crave more and more. This is why it’s so important for grandparents to guide their grandchildren toward balance in screen use.

Setting healthy screen-time boundaries

As a grandparent, you bring wisdom and perspective to the table. You can help your grandkids learn self-control by setting gentle, loving boundaries. Try these ideas — practical ways for how to connect with grandkids without screens while keeping peace in your home:

• Device-free zones: Create areas like the dinner table, backyard, bedrooms, or bathrooms where screens are off-limits.
• iPad hours: Post a sign that says, “iPads allowed between 11 a.m. and noon.”
• iPad naptime: Tell younger kids their device needs a nap. Fold a cloth napkin over it and let it rest. (Teens’ devices might benefit from a nap too!)
• Device check: Have a “coat check” for devices when grandkids arrive. Issue a little ticket to claim them later — they’ll think it’s fun.

Before you implement new routines, talk with your grandkids about the changes. They may not celebrate at first, but stand firm — your home, your rules. Soon, they’ll learn that peace and presence feel better than constant stimulation.

Modeling what you want to see

Kids aren’t the only ones glued to screens. If you scroll while telling your grandkids to put their devices away, your message loses power. Try joining them in new habits: put phones in another room, use a paper Bible instead of a Bible app during family devotions, or plan screen-free family nights. Your example as their grandparents will teaches them what healthy screen time boundaries look like.

What to do instead of screens

You might wonder, What will we do without our devices? Here are a few fun screen-free activities for grandparents and grandchildren that spark real connection:

• Go on a scavenger hunt. Make a list of outdoor finds like a giant leaf or a brown door. Walking together boosts everyone’s health.
• Visit the library. It’s a free treasure chest! Order books about topics your grandkids love and surprise them at pickup.
• Family-album day. Show your grandkids old photos of their parents and tell funny or faith-filled stories from your family’s history.
• Bake something together. Whether from scratch or a mix, the smell of cookies or brownies creates sweet memories.
• Host a LEGO contest. Build together across visits and unveil the creation to parents with fanfare.

Your love matters more than any screen

Maybe you’ve seen decorative signs that read:
Grandkids welcome. Parents by appointment. Kitchen open 24 hours.

But you probably wouldn’t hang one that says:
Unlimited video games. Stare at your device as long as you want.

Screens may seem unstoppable, but your love and presence are stronger. When you set limits and offer alternatives, you teach your grandkids that relationships matter more than entertainment. Your attention is more valuable than a million cat videos — and your influence will last far longer than any trending game.

In the end, the most lasting connection isn’t through Wi-Fi — it’s through shared memories, faith, and love.

Frequently Asked Questions: Grandparents’ Sharing Kid’s Time With Screens

Q: How can I connect with my grandkids without screens?
A: Choose intentional moments — read together, cook, play outside, or share family stories. Kids crave time and attention more than devices, even if they don’t show it right away.

Q: How can I connect with my grandkids without screens?
A: Choose intentional moments — read together, cook, play outside, or share family stories. Kids crave time and attention more than devices, even if they don’t show it right away.