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Issue link: https://digital.macdirectory.com/i/1234839
especially smartphones, have erased the line between work and home to the point that there is no such thing as "off the clock." People check their smartphones 150 times a day (every six minutes) and young adults send an average of 110 texts per day. Psychologist Lisa Damour wryly observed that if you wanted to invent something that would undermine sleep and consume time for kids, or people of any age; the screen, especially the smartphone, would be at the top of the list. We know you're a good parent and set rules for your kids. Researchers at ChildWise reported that three in five have rules or limits on the use of at least one of their devices. The only problem was that most of the kids said parents weren't real good role models on how/when they used their devices, noting parents seemed inattentive, distracted and even addicted to the devices. One teen said that her parents were constantly on their devices and "ignore me when I talk to them and shout and get angry at me if I mention putting them down". Another told researchers: "My mum will tell me to get off my phone and go to bed, then she plays on Candy Crush for two hours." So much for leading by example! How hooked are millennial parents? In a recent podcast, Shelly Palmer, an industry commentator, recently made an on-air offer of $100,000 to anyone who would give up their smartphone for a year. Last we heard, Shelly's money is still in his pocket! We're pretty sure he knew it was a safe bet that no one would take him up on it because screens, especially smartphones, are an integral part of every family's connection with the world around us. For children of all ages, screens – TV, tablet, smartphone – shouldn't be viewed as a digital pacifier or as a way to pass the time so parents can get things done, do other things. Screen time for kids of any age is a complex issue that requires more thought than