TEENS OFF SCREENS

"Teen’s Off Screens"

A Movement Born: Through Connection and Intentionality

Raised in a military family, Berlyn learned early the value of persistence, sacrifice, and service. Watching her mother take the risk of starting a business and her father commit his career to improving other people’s health as an Air Force cardiologist shaped her drive to create meaningful change. Those examples—entrepreneurial courage and medical dedication—became the foundation for Teens off Screens.

Berlyn launched Teens off Screens to improve the health of millions of young people by addressing the often-overlooked impacts of excessive screen use. Her goal is to reduce childhood issues linked to overstimulation—poor focus, depleted mental energy, and explosive behavior—by educating communities about the consequences of too much screen time, offering practical resources for healthier habits, and promoting social alternatives that support overall well-being.

Over the past several years, Berlyn has focused her energy on building this movement: raising awareness, sharing tools for better screen management, and helping youth discover engaging, healthy alternatives to screens. Teens off Screens is inspired by a commitment to service and a belief that empowering young people with knowledge and options can lead to lasting improvements in their health and daily lives.

Youth ages 8-18 spend, on average, 7.5 hours a day in front of a screen for entertainment everyday!

“Ditch the device & enjoy life beyond the screen! When we reduce our use we find meaningful ways of creating healthy habits and connecting.” - Berlyn

• Nearly 95% of teens ages 13-17 use social media, with 1/3 reporting they use social media “almost constantly.”

• 96% watch TV for 15 hours a week

• 40% play games on a screen for 6 hours a week

Reducing screen time can improve overall well-being

5 tips to help you reduce screen time:

1. Set goals and limits: Determine how much screen time is reasonable for you and set specific limits for yourself.

2. Create tech-free zones: Designate certain areas in your home as screen-free zones, such as the dining area or bedroom.

3. Find alternative activities: Discover hobbies or activities that don't involve screens, such as reading, exercising, or spending time outdoors.

4. Turn off notifications: Disable unnecessary notifications to avoid constant distractions and reduce the urge to check your screens.

5. Prioritize face-to-face interactions: Spend more time engaging in real-life conversations and activities with family, friends, and loved ones.

Remember, reducing screen time is a gradual process, and it's important to find a balance that works for you!