Screens are a big part of everyday life. For many autistic children, screen time can be calming, enjoyable, and an important way to relax or focus on special interests. It can also be a source of learning and connection. At the same time, stopping screen time can feel very hard, especially when transitions are unexpected or unclear.
This booklet is designed to support parents and carers to navigate screen time calmly and positively, with a focus on predictability, routines, and reducing stress for everyone involved.
Why screen time can be tricky
Screen activities are often:
Highly engaging
Predictable and comforting
Difficult to step away from once absorbed
For autistic children, sudden endings can feel overwhelming and may lead to distress, meltdowns, or shutdowns. This is not defiance or “bad behaviour” – it is often a response to change.
A balanced approach
Screen time itself is not harmful. What matters most is balance.
A supportive approach helps to:
Reduce anxiety around stopping screens
Support emotional regulation
Create clear expectations
Avoid repeated conflict or negotiation
The aim is not to remove screens, but to help your child understand when, how long, and what happens next.
Setting clear boundaries
Clear and consistent boundaries help screen time feel safer and more predictable.
Helpful strategies include:
Deciding in advance when screens are allowed
Keeping time limits realistic (shorter sessions can work better)
Using the same rules each day where possible
Avoiding sudden changes or “just five more minutes”
Consistency builds trust and reduces anxiety.
Using time warnings and timers
Giving notice before screen time ends can make a big difference.
Try:
Giving regular countdowns (for example, 10 minutes left, then 5 minutes)
Using visual timers so your child can see time passing
Using the same words each time screen time is ending
Knowing what to expect helps reduce the shock of stopping.
Supporting transitions
Transitions are often the hardest part of screen time.
To support your child:
Let them know what is happening next
Use simple, clear language
Keep your tone calm and neutral
Avoid long explanations during moments of distress
It can also help to move from screens to something familiar or enjoyable, rather than straight into a difficult task.
Building screen time into routines
Screen time works best when it is part of a predictable daily routine.
For example:
Screen time after school, before dinner
Screen time after completing a set activity
Screen time at the same time each day
When children know screen time will come back again later, it is often easier to let it go.
When things don’t go smoothly
If screen time regularly ends in distress:
Review whether sessions are too long
Check whether warnings are clear enough
Consider whether your child needs extra support to regulate afterwards
Stay calm, supportive, and consistent. Over time, predictable endings help children feel safer and more in control.
Key message
Screen time can be a valuable and positive part of your child’s day. With clear boundaries, predictable routines, and compassionate support, it is possible to reduce stress and make screen time work better for your whole family.
Every child is different. Take what works for your child, adapt as needed, and be kind to yourself along the way.