Screen Time Tips Every Parent Should Know
Date: 06/26/26
Children today have access to screens on tablets, phones, television and computers. It is important to set limits on your child’s screen time for their overall health and well-being.
The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) provides these guidelines for limiting screen time for children based on their age:
- 18 months and younger: No screen time is recommended.
- 18 months to 5 years old: Outside of educational purposes, limit to 1 hour per day. Use devices with your child – do not let them use devices alone.
- 5 years old and up: Limit screen time to ensure your child is getting enough sleep and is being physically active. Children need between 8-12 hours of sleep and at least 1 hour of physical activity per day.
You can create rules about screen time and technology that work best for your family. Here are a few tips provided by HealthyChildren.org:
- Set screen-free times together, like during meals, while doing homework or right before bedtime.
- Choose quality content that is educational and engaging.
- Only let your child use 1 device at a time.
- Use parental controls, when possible, to help keep your child from seeing age-inappropriate content.
Learn more about setting screen time limits and tips on healthy digital habits for children at the resources below.
- Web MD Ignite: Screen Time and Children
- WebMD Ignite Video: 5 Tips to Build Healthy Cell Phone Habits