Screen Time and Kids: Helping Children Set Healthy Boundaries

Children between the ages of 2-5 should not be exposed to more than one hour per day of high programming (American Academy of Paediatrics)

In today’s digital world, screens are an integral part of children's lives, from education to entertainment. While technology offers many benefits, excessive screen time can negatively impact sleep, social skills, and mental well-being. Helping children set healthy boundaries around screen use is essential for balanced development. Kids and screen time remains a challenge so helping kids to set boundaries with technology is essential.

1. Understanding the Impact of Screen Time

Before setting boundaries, it’s important to recognize both the benefits and risks:

✅ Pros: Educational apps, creative tools, and social connectivity

❌ Cons: Reduced physical activity, sleep disruption, and potential addiction

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends:

• Ages 0-2: Minimal screen exposure, with a focus on interaction.

• Ages 2-5: No more than 1 hour per day of high-quality programming.

• Ages 6+: Consistent limits, ensuring screen time doesn’t replace sleep, exercise, or family time.

2. Setting Age-Appropriate Boundaries

🔹 Create a Screen Time Schedule – Establish daily or weekly limits based on school, family, and outdoor activities.

🔹 Use the 20-20-20 Rule – Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break by looking 20 feet away to reduce eye strain.

🔹Encourage Screen-Free Zones – Keep screens out of bedrooms and mealtime areas to promote family interaction.

🔹 Model Healthy Habits – Children follow by example, so parents should also set limits on their own screen use.

3. Encouraging Balanced Activities

⚽ Outdoor Play & Exercise – Encourage kids to balance screen time with physical activity.📚 Creative & Hands-on Activities – Promote reading, drawing, and puzzles to stimulate creativity.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Social Interaction – Plan screen-free family nights with games, storytelling, or outings.

4. Teaching Digital Responsibility

• Set parental controls to filter inappropriate content.

• Discuss online safety to prevent cyberbullying and oversharing.

• Encourage mindful consumption by choosing educational and positive content.

5. Using Technology Positively

✔ Co-watch and discuss content with your child.

✔ Use apps that encourage learning and skill-building.

✔ Set up “tech breaks” rather than complete bans to create a balanced approach.

Excitingly, by embracing these strategies, parents can empower their children to cultivate a healthy relationship with screens, all while nurturing responsibility, sparking creativity, and boosting social engagement!