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Recommended Screen Time Limits for Young Children

A structured overview of what credible sources and parent perspectives commonly say about this topic.

Quick answer

The AAP advises that children aged 2 to 5 have no more than one hour per day of quality screen time, with parental involvement. For children under 18 months, screen media should be avoided except for video chatting. Alternatives include interactive play, reading, and outdoor activities.

At a glance

Most common inChildren aged 2 to 5 years

Usually meansOne hour or less of high-quality, educational screen content daily, with parental co-viewing

What helps mostConsistent routines including screen-free zones and times, especially before bed

AvoidUsing screens as the primary way to calm children or allowing screens in bedrooms and during meals

Look closer ifChild shows persistent sleep problems, attention difficulties, or excessive screen use interfering with physical activity and social interaction

Things to try now

What to do now

1Set a daily screen time limit of one hour for your child aged 2 to 5, focusing on educational content.
2Create screen-free zones in your home, such as bedrooms and the dining area.
3Establish a screen-free hour before bedtime to help your child wind down.

What to say

“Let's pick a fun show to watch together and then we'll turn off the screens for some playtime.”
“After one hour of screen time, it's time to put the devices away and do something active or read a book.”
“Screens are off now so we can get ready for bed and have a good night's sleep.”

What to practice consistently

Co-view media with your child to help them understand and engage with content.
Maintain consistent routines around screen use, including clear start and stop times.
Encourage alternative activities like outdoor play, reading, and creative play daily.

What to avoid

Using screens as the primary way to calm or distract your child.
Allowing screens in bedrooms or during meals, which can disrupt sleep and family interaction.
Permitting unlimited or unsupervised screen time, especially passive consumption.

These are common approaches mentioned in sources and by parents. They are informational, not prescriptive.

What this usually involves

Limiting screen time to one hour per day for children aged 2-5, focusing on educational and interactive content
Avoiding screen media for children under 18 months except for video chatting to support social connection
Parental co-viewing to help children understand and engage with screen content
Establishing screen-free zones such as bedrooms and the dinner table to promote healthy habits
Setting screen-free times, particularly the hour before bedtime, to reduce overstimulation and support sleep
Creating a Family Media Use Plan that balances screen time with sleep, physical activity, homework, and face-to-face interaction

Related articles on Parent.wiki

Recommended Screen Time Limits for Children

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends limiting screen time for children aged 2 to 5 to one hour per day of high-quality programming, with co-viewing by parents to enhance understanding. For children under 18 months, screen media use is discouraged except for video chatting. Establishing screen-free zones and times, especially before bedtime, supports healthy sleep and development.

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Appropriate Screen Time for Young Children to Support Pretend Play

For young children, especially ages 2 to 5, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends limiting screen time to one hour per day of high-quality, educational programming, with parental co-viewing to support understanding. Excessive screen time can reduce opportunities for active, unstructured play such as pretend play, which is vital for cognitive and social development.

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Recommended Screen Time Limits for Children by Age

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides specific screen time guidelines based on age to promote healthy development and sleep. For children under 18 months, screen media use is discouraged except for video chatting. Children aged 2 to 5 should be limited to one hour per day of high-quality programming with parental co-viewing. Older children benefit from balanced screen time that does not interfere with sleep, physical activity, and face-to-face interactions.

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Effective Strategies for Setting Screen Time Limits Your Child Will Accept

Setting screen time limits that children accept involves consistent routines, clear communication, and offering choices to give children a sense of control. Using positive reinforcement, transition warnings, and family media plans can reduce conflict and help children understand boundaries around screen use.

From around the web

Media and Young Minds

Guidelines on screen time and media use for young children.

American Academy of Pediatrics

Children and Screen Time

Information on the impact of screen time on child development and health.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Screen Time and Children

Discussion on quality versus quantity of screen time and managing usage.

Child Mind Institute

Family Media Use Plan

Resources to help families create a balanced media use plan.