Guidelines for Screen Time by Age

As parents in the digital age, it’s crucial to balance the benefits of technology with healthy development. Let’s explore screen time guidelines tailored to various age groups.

Toddlers (Ages 1-2)

For our littlest ones, screen time should be very limited. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests avoiding digital media for toddlers younger than 18 months, except for video chatting. Between 18 to 24 months, if you wish to introduce digital media, choose high-quality programming and watch it with your child to help them understand what they’re seeing.

Preschoolers (Ages 3-5)

At this stage, children are rapidly learning and can benefit from educational content. Limit screen time to 1 hour per day of high-quality programs. Co-view with your preschoolers, engage with the content, and discuss it to maximize learning and interaction.

School-Age Children (Ages 6-12)

This age group starts to have more autonomy. Set consistent limits on screen time, balancing it with physical activity, sleep, and other activities. Around 1-2 hours of screen time per day is recommended, focusing on educational content and age-appropriate entertainment.

Teenagers (Ages 13-18)

Teenagers should have more flexibility but still need guidelines. Encourage them to be mindful of their digital habits, balancing screen time with other responsibilities. Emphasize the importance of sleep and offline interactions. Encourage educational and creative uses of technology, and discuss online safety and digital citizenship.

Tips for All Ages

• Family Time: Have regular screen-free family times.
• Digital Hygiene: Encourage breaks, proper posture, and eye care.
• Be a Role Model: Set a good example with your own screen habits.
• Open Communication: Regularly talk about online experiences and safety.

Remember, these guidelines aren’t one-size-fits-all. Each child is unique, and as a parent, you know your child best. Adjust these recommendations to fit your child’s needs and your family’s values.