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Screen Time Recommendations for Children Under Age 2
A structured overview of what credible sources and parent perspectives commonly say about this topic.
Quick answer
The AAP discourages screen media use for children under 18 months except for video chatting, which can support social connection. For children aged 18 to 24 months, if screens are introduced, it should be limited to high-quality programming watched together with a caregiver to help the child understand content.
At a glance
Things to try now
What to do now
- 1Avoid introducing screen media to your child under 18 months except for video chatting.
- 2Increase face-to-face interactions by talking, reading, and singing with your child daily.
- 3Establish screen-free zones and times, especially during meals and the hour before bedtime.
What to say
- “Let's play together with your toys instead of watching a screen right now.”
- “Video chatting with Grandma helps us see her smile even when she's far away.”
- “After dinner, we turn off screens so our bodies can get ready for sleep.”
What to practice consistently
- Daily routines that include reading and singing to your child.
- Consistent limits on screen exposure and screen-free times.
- Responsive caregiving by promptly and warmly responding to your child's cues.
What to avoid
- Using screens as a primary way to calm or distract your child.
- Allowing passive screen time without caregiver involvement.
- Screen exposure during the hour before bedtime.
These are common approaches mentioned in sources and by parents. They are informational, not prescriptive.
What this usually involves
- Avoiding all screen media except video chatting for children under 18 months
- For 18-24 months, introducing only high-quality, educational programming with caregiver co-viewing
- Prioritizing 'serve and return' interactions such as talking, reading, and singing
- Establishing screen-free zones and times, especially before bedtime
- Focusing on unstructured play and real-world exploration to support brain development
- Creating a Family Media Use Plan to set consistent boundaries around screen use
Related questions
The AAP recommends limiting screen time to one hour per day of high-quality programming with caregiver co-viewing for children aged 2 to 5.
Yes, video chatting is an exception for children under 18 months and can support social connection when used appropriately.
A Family Media Use Plan sets consistent rules about screen time, including limits, screen-free zones, and times, and encourages co-viewing and discussion about content.
Related articles on Parent.wiki
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.
Recommended Screen Time Limits for Young 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.
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.
Effective Strategies for Managing Screen Time in Young Children
Managing screen time for young children involves setting consistent limits, prioritizing high-quality content, and establishing screen-free zones and times. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen use to one hour per day for children aged 2 to 5, encouraging co-viewing, and avoiding screens before bedtime to support healthy sleep and development.
From around the web
Media and Young Minds
Discusses AAP recommendations on screen use for young children.
American Academy of Pediatrics
How Much Screen Time Is OK for Kids?
Provides guidance on screen time limits and healthy habits.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Screen Time and Young Children
Explores the impact of screen time on early childhood development.
ZERO TO THREE
The Importance of Responsive Caregiving
Explains how responsive caregiving supports brain development.
NICHD