What Should Be the Screen Time for Children?
In today’s digital age, screens are an integral part of our lives. From education to entertainment, technology offers numerous benefits. However, for parents, the question often arises: “How much screen time is too much for my child?”
To answer this, we turn to reputable scientific organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
Guidelines by Age Group
Expert consensus suggests that screen time limits should vary significantly by age.
Infants and Toddlers (0–18 months)
For this age group, the recommendation is clear: Avoid screen time, except for video chatting (e.g., with grandparents).
- Why? Infants learn best from real-world interactions and hands-on exploration. Digital media cannot replace the learning that happens through face-to-face contact.
Toddlers (18–24 months)
If you decide to introduce digital media, choose high-quality programming and watch it with your child.
- The Goal: Help them understand what they are seeing. Avoid letting children use media alone.
Preschoolers (2–5 years)
Limit screen use to 1 hour per day of high-quality programs.
- The AAP emphasizes that parents should co-view media with children to help them apply what they learn to the world around them.
- The WHO similarly advises that sedentary screen time should be no more than 1 hour; less is better.
School-Age Children and Teens (6+ years)
For older children, strict time limits (like “2 hours a day”) have been replaced with a more holistic approach. The focus shifts to balance.
- Ensure that screen time does not interfere with essential activities like sleep, physical activity, and personal interaction.
- Establish consistent limits on the time spent using media and the types of media used.
It’s Not Just About Time
While duration matters, the content and context are equally important.
- Content: Is the app or show educational? Is it age-appropriate?
- Context: Is screen time replacing family dinner conversations? Is it being used to calm a child down constantly?
Tips for Parents
- Create a Family Media Plan: Decide together when and where screens are allowed.
- Screen-Free Zones: Keep bedrooms, mealtimes, and parent-child playtimes screen-free.
- Be a Role Model: Children imitate their parents. If you are constantly on your phone, they will want to be too.
Conclusion
Technology is a tool that can be used for good, but it requires management. By following guidelines from trusted sources like the AAP and WHO, parents can ensure their children develop healthy digital habits.
Sources: