Amazingly, of all places, it’s the internet that is full of conversations about how we should all be “unplugging”. With smartphones, tablets, and laptops always within reach, more families are recognizing the importance of setting boundaries around screen time – especially at bedtime. 

Did you know? Most home routers allow you to automatically disconnect kids' devices at night, helping everyone get the rest they need. Steps will vary based on your internet service provider and the router model, but here’s a general guide. 

Log into the router’s settings by opening a web browser and typing in the router’s IP address. Sign in with a username and password (often printed on a sticker or in the manual). If you’re with Rogers, the router can be managed using their Rogers Xfinity app. 

Once logged into the router’s dashboard, access tools that control when devices can connect to the internet. Look for a section called Parental Controls, Access Control, or Time Scheduling. 

Select the device you want to limit and set the schedule that turns Wi-Fi off to that device during certain hours – for example, from 9pm until morning, or maybe during “family dinner time”. Once saved, the router will automatically pause internet access during those times. 

TIP – Some router dashboards allow you to "group" devices and apply the same schedule to all of them at once.