Device Restrictions for Children Require More Than Rules; Family Role is Critical

Device usage among children has become a matter of concern to many parties in recent years. Increasingly easy access to digital devices and social media means children risk spending excessive time in front of screens. Consequently, the government has begun implementing various policies to restrict digital access for children. However, the role of families remains an important factor in helping children manage device usage in a healthy manner.

Professor Rose Mini Agoes Salim, M.Psi., Head of the Psychology Faculty at the University of Indonesia, stated that families constitute the closest environment with significant influence over children’s habits, including device usage. “But responsibility in this matter (limiting device use) also rests with those closest to the child, namely the family,” said Romi, as quoted by ANTARA on Thursday (12 March 2026).

She explained that family circumstances vary considerably in daily life. Some families have both parents working, which means supervision time for children becomes limited. Nevertheless, parents can still apply simple strategies at home to help children reduce device dependency.

One approach that can be implemented is introducing attractive alternative activities for children. According to Romi, restricting device usage without providing substitute activities can actually leave children feeling confused or frustrated. These activities need not be complicated, but should be designed so children feel challenged and engaged.

For example, parents can involve children in simple home projects, such as creating artwork, writing stories, or conducting small observations of their surroundings. Children can also be encouraged to write about animals found near their home or collect photographs as material for stories.