Aspirus Physician Encourages Healthy Social Media Habits for Families this Back-to-School Season

“When adults are mindful of their own screen use, it sets the tone for the whole household.”

WAUSAU, Wis. – August is National Back to School Month, and while students may not be in the classroom just yet, now is the time for families to start building routines that support a healthy transition into the school year.

That includes taking a closer look at how kids and teens are using social media.

“Just like everything, too much is a bad thing,” said Kimberly Frodl, MD, a Family Medicine Physician with Aspirus Health. “Screen use late at night can make it harder to fall asleep and impact how well kids perform in school.”

Dr. Frodl says while social media can foster connection and community, excessive use may interfere with sleep, attention span, and overall well-being. She encourages parents to create simple guidelines before the school year begins. Ideas include setting devices aside during family meals, shutting down screens an hour or two before bedtime, and charging phones outside of bedrooms at night.

Parents should also stay alert to behavioral changes such as slipping grades, irritability, or withdrawal from activities, which may suggest that screen time is becoming problematic.

In addition to setting boundaries, Dr. Frodl highlights the importance of leading by example.

“Our kids watch us. They get their cues from us,” she said. “When adults are mindful of their own screen use, it sets the tone for the whole household.”

Aspirus Health encourages families to use the weeks ahead to refresh habits, start conversations, and approach the school year with a healthy balance of technology and real-life connection.