For infants and toddlers aged 0-2 years, it is recommended to avoid screen time altogether, except for video chatting with family and friends. Screen time at this age can interfere with healthy brain development and sleep patterns. Instead, focus on interactive play, reading, and other hands-on activities to promote physical and cognitive development.
Parents should prioritize face-to-face interactions with their young children and limit exposure to screens as much as possible. If screen time is necessary, choose high-quality educational content and co-view with your child to provide context and engage in discussion.
Preschoolers (3-5 years)
For preschoolers aged 3-5 years, screen time should be limited to no more than one hour per day of high-quality programming. This can include educational apps, games, and TV shows that are age-appropriate and promote learning and creativity.
Parents should set clear boundaries and establish screen-free zones in the home, such as the dinner table and bedrooms. Encourage active play, outdoor activities, and social interactions to balance screen time and promote healthy development.
School-Aged Children (6-12 years)
For school-aged children aged 6-12 years, screen time recommendations vary based on individual needs and activities. However, it is generally advised to limit recreational screen time to no more than 2 hours per day. This can include watching TV, playing video games, and using smartphones or tablets for entertainment.
Encourage children to engage in a variety of activities, such as sports, hobbies, reading, and creative play, to maintain a healthy balance between screen time and real-world experiences. Monitor content and set guidelines for online safety and responsible technology use.