Guidelines for Babies and Toddlers’ Screen Time

In the first two years of a baby’s life, the vast majority of the brain’s growth occurs. As a result, newborns and toddlers should be encouraged to explore their surroundings and take in a wide range of sensory experiences. Children learn more about the world around them when they interact and play with others.

To keep children from spending too much time staring at screens, experts recommend restricting their screen time. Keep your kids away from all screens they’ll be surrounded by, but this isn’t always easy to do in the modern world when technology is so prevalent.

What Is the Limit of Excessiveness?

Screen usage should be limited to no more than two hours per day for babies younger than 18 months, as stated by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Video conferencing with grandparents or other family members or friends is an exception to this guideline, which is considered quality time spent with others.

When a child is between the ages of 18 and 24 months, he or she is old enough to enjoy some screen time with a caregiver. When an adult is there to reinforce lessons, children of this age can learn. It’s fine for children between the ages of 2 and 3 to watch up to an hour of instructional TV each day.

Tips for Introducing Toddlers to Screen Time

  • Be present for screen time with young children. For example, you may play an educational game or discuss something you see on a kid-friendly TV show or video together.
  • Don’t buy games or applications for your youngster until you’ve done your homework. However, not all instructional applications and games are what they promise to be. Find out what educators and doctors think are the best online. Before sharing with your youngster, try to see what it will look like in advance.
  • Make sure your youngster has a lot of non-screen time in his or her day. Children’s playtime is critical to their education and the development of creativity. Set aside time for hands-on learning and socializing. Encourage your youngster to engage in some form of physical activity on a daily basis.
  • Prevent the temptation to watch television or other electronic devices for at least one hour before you go to bed. Keep televisions and other electrical devices out of your bedroom.
  • Set a positive example for others to follow. All screens, including televisions, should be turned off while not in use. When you’re with your youngster, don’t have any displays running in the background, and don’t use your phone. This can detract from your interactions with one another and the play of your child.

Please consult with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding the usage of electronic devices by your child.

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