Jamie Chung, known for her role in “Grown Ups 2,” and her husband, Bryan Greenberg, welcomed twin sons in October 2021. The couple is now dedicated to raising their children in a way that limits screen time, favouring more traditional and engaging activities aimed at nurturing imagination and creativity.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/jamie-chung-051326-dc6c7ef9143845c9ba8916184c8d4153.jpg)
In a recent conversation with PEOPLE about her collaboration with Yoto Originals, an audio platform specifically designed for children, Chung shared her preference for minimising the influence of screens on her young boys. “I’m not a big fan of screens,” she remarked, noting her commitment to finding alternatives that promote imaginative play. Chung described the partnership as an ideal match, allowing her to promote content that encourages mindful parenting.
Chung, now 43, is keenly aware of the challenges posed by modern technology. She reflected on how even a brief exposure to tablets can disrupt her twins’ behaviour, noting that they “turn into monsters” when given unrestricted access. “Studies show that excessive screen time can adversely affect brain development,” she added, explaining their decision to rely on Yoto’s offerings. The focus, she emphasised, is on providing children with quality experiences that foster creativity, especially in an age dominated by artificial intelligence and questionable online content.
The campaign with Yoto features various new titles designed to bolster children’s imagination, incorporating beloved songs and stories. Chung expressed enthusiasm for the platform, stating it is an invaluable resource for her boys during travel or times when they need a calming presence. “We often play classical music to help them unwind during temper tantrums, allowing them their own space to relax,” she explained, highlighting the platform’s versatility.
While the couple enjoys outdoor activities with their children, Chung acknowledged that evenings often restrict their options. On school nights, they have a rule regarding screen time, insisting that any content must either be educational or have a storyline. “We believe in storytelling, and it reflects in our choices as parents,” she said. “We want to steer clear of passive consumption, such as watching unstructured YouTube clips.”
Moreover, Chung emphasises leading by example, consciously limiting her own screen time when spending time with her children. She finds joy in reliving their imaginative moments, saying, “Observing their creativity unfold is such a delight,” and she appreciates the independence her boys are beginning to exhibit.
Looking ahead, Chung has already begun contemplating when her sons might receive their first smartphones, yet she favours delaying this milestone as long as possible. She envisages a future during their teenage years when the subject of devices will arise. “I’m exploring analog options marketed towards parents,” she mentioned, intrigued by simple phone plans and even the potential to revert to a flip phone for her children.
Chung’s thoughtful parenting approach prioritises creativity over convenience, and her commitment to promoting a healthy relationship with technology serves as an example for other parents navigating similar challenges. With a focus on nurturing her sons’ imaginations and experiences, Chung is determined to cultivate a childhood filled with exploration and learning rather than a reliance on screens.
Ultimately, Jamie Chung and Bryan Greenberg’s intentional choices reflect a growing movement of parents seeking to reclaim analogue experiences for their children, countering the pressures of a digitally saturated environment. Their journey in parenting, characterised by creative exploration and a commitment to mindful living, stands as a testament to the possibilities of balance in today’s technological age.