To help me develop to my fullest potential, please keep me away from screens! Active play is extremely important for me as I grow, and spending too much time in front of a screen can cut into my play time. Screens might also hamper me from learning how to socially interact with others and interfere with my sleep routines. Try to establish times during the day when screens are not allowed, such as during mealtimes. Also try to set up some media-free locations inside the house, such as bedrooms. Below are some age-specific guidelines:
18 months and younger
- Avoid placing me near screens unless you are videochatting with me.
18-24 months
- Some educational programs can positively influence my development. You may start showing me digital media, but please only use high quality content from places like Sesame Workshop and PBS! Please stay close and watch these programs with me to make sure I know what’s going on!
2-5 years
- Please limit screen time to one hour per day. Keep showing me high quality programs only! Watch with me to help me understand what I’m seeing.
6 years and older
- Try to set routines with my screen time, just like you do with sleep. Consistently limit the amount of screen time I get every day and make sure I keep watching only high-quality programs. Don’t let screen time get in the way of sleep, play time, and other healthy habits.