Screen Time and Kids: Finding a Healthy Balance

In today's digital world, screens are everywhere. Smartphones, tablets, computers, and TVs have become part of our daily lives. While technology offers many advantages, research shows that screen time for children has increased dramatically in recent decades. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), children now spend an average of 7 hours a day on entertainment media, which is a significant rise from previous generations.

The effects of screen time can vary based on a child's age and developmental stage.

• Infants and Toddlers (0-2 years): Excessive screen time during this critical developmental period can delay language skills and reduce opportunities for interactive play, which is essential for brain development.
• Young Children (3-8 years): At this stage, too much screen time can affect attention spans, sleep patterns, and social development. It's important to balance screen use with hands-on learning and face-to-face interaction.
• Preteens and Teens (9-18 years): Older children face different challenges, including the risk of decreased physical activity, cyberbullying, and negative impacts on mental health, such as increased anxiety or feelings of isolation. Too much screen time can also interfere with sleep and school performance.

Helping Kids Find Balance

The AAP recommends limiting screen time for children aged 2 to 5 to no more than 1 hour of high-quality content daily and setting consistent limits for older kids. Babies under 18 months should not have any screen time, except for video chatting. Here are some strategies to help your family create a healthy balance:

• Encourage outdoor activities: Playing outside, hiking, or participating in sports promotes physical health and creativity.
  Create screen-free zones: Keep screens out of bedrooms and away from the dinner table to encourage better sleep and family interaction.
• Establish bedtime routines: Avoid screen use 30–60 minutes before bedtime to help children wind down and improve sleep quality.
• Spend quality time together: Engage in non-screen activities such as cooking, reading, doing puzzles, or enjoying creative hobbies as a family.
• Be a role model: Set a positive example by managing your own screen time and engaging in offline activities.

Every age brings new challenges and opportunities for growth. By setting clear limits and encouraging alternative activities, parents and grandparents can help children develop healthy habits and build meaningful real-world connections. Small, consistent changes can make a big difference in promoting your child's well-being, both now and in the future.

If you have questions or concerns about your child's screen use, speak with your primary care provider. Together, we can support your child's growth and support a healthy balance for the whole family.