How much screen time is too much for kids? It’s a question often asked— even my wife and I have disagreements about this topic at times.
Moving to Mexico midway through the pandemic screen time was the most mandatory it has been, ever. It was their proverbial connection to school.
For most kids, it would be a fair assumption that this period of was the only time children didn’t look forward to their tablets or laptops. Time for class kids.
Finding the right balance is the point, personally speaking, dictating when and under what conditions my children watch the television or go on their tables depends on punishment or reward simply broken down. To make it clear, reward allows them the access to regular times not more than usual, but the other restricts it all together.
Screen Time: What is it?
Screen time is one of those buzzwords we hear a lot, but does it actually mean what we think it means? Simply put, screen time is the amount of time your child spends using devices like TVs, tablets, smartphones, or computers.
We all use screen in our daily lives but we must cypher the different types of screen times and if they’re for entertainment or learning purposes. After all, not all screen time is created equal!
The Different Types of Screen Time
Not all screen time is bad or equal in its impact. Understanding what you want from the device at any given time would put into perspective when and how often kids would partake.
- Educational Screen Time
For example, learning apps, online classes, or even educational TV shows fall into this bucket. This is the “broccoli” of screen time—it’s good for their brains. My youngest son has a speech delay so he is allowed to use my phone for his lessons compared to his brothers who aren’t allowed on their devices during the week. There are tutoring programs that include interactive tech platforms are great examples of how screens can enhance learning. For me kids would get way more leeway than watching cartoons. Checkout this article about grade-boosting tools.
2. Recreational Screen Time
Think video games, YouTube marathons, or scrolling through TikTok. This is the “junk food” zone: fun in moderation, but too much leads to problems. Children using this kind of screen time for bonding activities (like gaming with siblings) can be fine—but keep it in check.
3. Passive Screen Time
This covers time spent zoning out in front of a show or endlessly scrolling through social media feeds. There’s minimal engagement or interaction. While it feels like a mental break, too much can lead to unhealthy habits.
4. Social Screen Time
Video chats with grandparents or texting friends? That’s social screen time, but different, but it’s a great way for kids to stay connected with family. There is no real risk of their devices being overused.
Why Does It Matter?
knowing the type of things your child engages in would most likely dictate how long they will be on their devices. Kids who spend hours on fast-paced games might be overstimulated, while those using screen time for learning develop valuable skills.
Chances are if your child loves doing math or indulges in learning activities they will under regular circumstances get more time to do so.
Suggested Guidelines for Children’s Screen Time
Knowing or having an idea of recommended times and ages of children’s times with their on time screen activities can give you a better idea. As parents, the buck stops with us.
It’s not about being a strict enforcer. There are few expert guidelines broken down into age group, to keep kids thriving while still allowing room for tech.
Recommendations by Age Group
Toddlers (Under 2 Years)
Younger than two? Screen time should be none existent at this age group, apart from video chatting. Why you ask? Because of their newly forming, rapidly developing brain, children would learn more through real-world play and interaction rather than looking into a screen. —it’s better for their long-term growth!
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends actual play time and face-to-face social learning instead.
Pre-schoolers (Ages 2-5)
For kids aged 2 to 5, screen time should be kept to about an hour per day of high quality learning programs. At this tender age it’s all about developing communication and motor skills.
From a very young age, get them used to educational programs and shows that consist of a heavy dose of interaction and creativity.
School-Age Kids (Ages 6+)
As children grows the one-size-fits-all truly no longer applies. Be sure they get enough sleep (9–12 hours), movement (at least one hour daily), and social time before recreational screen use. It is not a bad idea to set no-screen time-zones in certain places in the house.
Benefits of Healthy Screen Time Habits
When used with positive intention, screen time can become a tool that educates and also connects families. It’s about finding that sweet spot where technology enhances your child’s development and enriches family life. Let’s break it down further.
Bringing The Family Together, Movie Night Perhaps?
Saturday nights are movie night and I absolutely look forward to spending some time doing nothing alongside my family, although sometimes it takes 20 minutes to decide what to watch. This is a time when we all come together and the house becomes a movie theatre.
Family movie nights give everyone a chance to laugh, chat, or even cry together. Plus, discussing what you’re watching or playing usually sparks a conversation or two which I highly encourage.
The bottom line? It’s all about that time spent together. When screens bring the family together, you’re not just spending time—you’re creating memories that stick. Don’t forget the popcorn.
Risk of Too Much Screen Time
In todays world there are screens everywhere you turn. And while technology has its perks, too much screen time can become problematic for kids.
Health Impact
Suppose given the chance a child would sit and be completely comatose without the consciousness of passing time or anything else. As parents, we cannot allow this to happen.
Less Movement = More Weight Gain
I tell my kids all the time, that my appreciation for the Age I grew up in grows by the day. That time was before the internet. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with this new era of tech but its hard work and a lot to protect our children from.
When children spend time on their devices, the less time they tend to spend being active. It’s like when you replace a healthy dinner with fast food – the occasional treat is fine, but too much can take a toll.
Effects on Mental Health
An overlooked aspect: its impact on kids’ mental well-being.
Photo by Kampus Production
- Anxiety and Depression
Think about how social media can be a comparison trap; this isn’t much different for kids. The constant exposure to unrealistic ideals or lifestyles can amplify feelings of not being good enough. - Sleep Problems and Mood Swings
Children, especially those with a TV in their room tend to struggle with poor sleep habits. This usually leads to crankiness, difficulty focusing, and even mood swings.
How to Manage Screen Time
Side note consistency is key. When there is a set schedule there is a better chance of cooperation.
Establishing Screen Time Limit
Setting limits on screen use is like setting a bedtime—it’s all about protecting their well-being. Provide them with clear, consistent guidelines so they know what to expect. Communicate openly about why limits matter, explaining how too much screen time can affect sleep, focus, and even moods.
Here are some practical tips:
- Use built-in tools: Many devices come with parental controls or apps that help manage screen time.
- Set time caps for activities: For example, allow one hour of video games after an educational activity.
- Be consistent but flexible: Stick to the rules but adjust for special occasions like a family movie night.
A Balanced Screen Time Schedule
With my children we place screen time within a larger, well-rounded routine. It’s a bit like cooking a balanced meal; screens are a part of the day, but they shouldn’t dominate the plate.
Here’s how to create a screen-friendly routine:
- Designate screen-free zones or times: Bedrooms, mealtime, or an hour before bed are excellent starting points.
- Incorporate daily offline activities: This can include reading, homework, hobbies, or chores.
- Plan rewarding “screen breaks”: Once key tasks are done, allow limited screen use as a reward.
A simple routine might look like this:
- Morning: Breakfast, school, or playtime.
- Afternoon: Homework or outdoor play.
- Evening: Family dinner followed by a maximum of one hour of screen time.
Kids thrive on structure, when there are clear understandings everything becomes easier.”Can I use my tablet now?” arguments.
Encouraging Outdoor Activities
Let’s face it—getting kids to spend more time outside can feel like pulling teeth when screens are available. But outdoor fun offers a world of benefits, from building physical strength to boosting mood through fresh air and sunlight.
Here are some ideas to get kids moving:
- Organize family outings: Walks, bike rides, or trips to the park can engage everyone.
- Sign them up for activities: Soccer, dance classes, or swimming lessons introduce fun alternatives to screen time.
- Simple backyard games: A soccer ball, jump rope, or a game of tag can do wonders.
Physical activity increases our kid’s health—it also helps reset their brains after hours of screen interaction. These breaks improve focus and minimize overstimulation from digital content. For even more actionable advice on finding that perfect balance, read this article on reducing screen time and fostering balance.
Parental Involvement and Monitoring
Regardless of how much of an overlord you think you might be, your children might still stumble on some inappropriate content. Let’s talk about these actionable steps.
Co-viewing and Discussing Content
From time to time I would sit and just connect with my kids in whatever they are watching. It allows me to get a first hand view of what my boys consume and makes it easy to steer a conversation of critical thinking.
Would you like to know why this matters? Children often absorb messages without questioning them. Think about it—how many times has your little one parroted a jingle or copied a silly dance routine?
When you just sit and chillout with them you get a chance to reinforce positive thought processes and correct negative ones. IT also makes them being on their device less isolating.
- Ask open-ended questions like:
- What did you learn from that show?
- Why do you think the character made that choice?
- Share your thoughts on what you’re watching to build their reasoning skills.
- Turn screen time into family time with activities like movie nights or app-based learning games.
- Related Post
10 Speech Therapy Apps for 2024.
Using Parental Controls
No matter how much we keep an eye on things, kids can easily stumble across inappropriate content. That’s where parental controls come in. They act like digital training wheels, helping kids navigate screen use safely while you gradually teach them to self-regulate over time.
Here are tools to help:
- Built-in Device Settings
Platforms like iPhones and iPads have remarkable built-in settings. You can set limits on apps, restrict explicit content, and track usage. - Parental Control Apps
Consider standalone apps like Google Family Link for managing time limits or monitoring daily usage on Android devices. Learn more by exploring the best apps for managing kids’ phone use. - Content-Specific Filters
Platforms like YouTube Kids or Netflix’s family mode allow you to hand-pick what’s available for your child to watch. - Game Consoles and Online Gaming Controls
If your child is into gaming, most consoles offer kid-friendly settings to block inappropriate games or keep chat interactions safe.
Start with these tools but don’t stop there. Technology isn’t foolproof, and the best safeguard will always be your involvement. Remember, these controls are a safety net—not a substitute for conversations about why limits and balance matter.
By being present and using tech wisely, you’re showing your kids how to thrive in a tech filled, screen-filled world—not just survive it.
Need ideas? Platforms with curated educational content are a great resource. For tips on managing tech tools that enhance learning, check out this guide.
A system needs to be put in place where our children knows the limitation they receive is for their overall best. The time scales of screen times and professional bases assessment and I do not necessarily follow them.
In my house we dictate the and facilitate when and how our children receive these privileges. The better they do in school and grades, the better the chances of extra-curricular activities. Let us put our best foot forward daily for the betterment of our most treasured ones, our children.
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