How much screen time is too much for kids and teens?

Are you juggling the digital dilemma of how much screen time is just right for your kids and teens? In a world where screens are everywhere – from the palm of our hands to the classrooms – what’s the balance we need to strike? Whether it's the allure of social media trends or the gravitational pull of an epic game level, it's clear that screens have a magnetic charm. But, how much is too much?

What does science say?

Research has shown that excessive screen time can have several adverse effects on kids and teens. For instance, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that excessive screen time could lead to issues with some communication and developmental skills in younger kids. 

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Other experts warn that too much screen time can interfere with social emotional development and sleep, and may contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression, among other implications.

On the other hand, the position of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is that there is not enough evidence to indicate a public health benefit to recommending a specific screen time limit. The key, they say, is to monitor the quality of content and ensure it does not affect other essential activities, such as sleep and exercise.

Finding the right balance

While there may not be a magic number for screen time that applies to all kids and teens, some experts suggest guidelines that can help parents find the right balance:

• Age-appropriate limits: In recent years, the AAP updated its former recommended maximums of one hour per day for kids aged 2-5 and two hours per day for older kids. Now, it advises a more holistic approach without any specific age-related restrictions. In 2020, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) published its own screentime guidelines by age , including removing screens altogether 30-60 minutes before bedtime.  

In general, experts agree that understanding the potential effects of too much screen time and crafting consistent household rules are great ways to help determine an appropriate screen time strategy for your child’s unique needs. (More on specific guidelines in the next section.) 

• Quality over quantity: Rather than focusing solely on the number of hours spent on screens, many experts recommend we pay attention to the quality of content our kids consume. For example, an hour spent on educational activities may be more beneficial than an hour scrolling through social media. 

• Set boundaries and stick to them: Create a clear plan for screen time in your household, including designated times and places for screens. Be consistent in enforcing these rules to help minimize confusion or arguments.

What is considered excessive screen time?

In 2020, the AACAP set rough guidelines that parents can use as a starting point for developing their own screen time plan. While there’s not yet enough scientific evidence to set definitive age-related limits, most experts agree that in general, you can define “how much screen time is too much” when it starts interfering with basic needs like sleeping, eating, school work, or mood. 

Managing screen time depends on your child's age since different age groups have different needs. Here's a handy guide to help you navigate this digital world:

• For your tiny tots up to 18 months old, consider allowing screen time only for video chatting with an adult, like a parent who's away on business.

• Until around 24 months, keep screen time restricted to educational content, ideally watched with a caregiver by their side.

• Got a preschooler between 2-5 years old? The AACAP advises keeping non-educational screen time to no more than an hour on weekdays and a maximum of three hours over the weekends.

• For children aged 6 and above, it's all about fostering healthy habits. Consider limiting screen-based activities and encourage more physical play and creativity.

• Meal times and family outings should always be a no-screen zone, according to the AACAP. This helps encourage conversation and family bonds.

• Make full use of parental controls. Understand how they work and apply them to ensure your child's digital safety.

• Avoid using screens to quiet down tantrums or as a distraction.

• And finally, establish a wind-down routine before bedtime. Switch off all screens and remove them from bedrooms at least 30-60 minutes prior to lights out.

The right screen time plan is the one that works for you  and your family

The bottom line is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to managing screen time for kids and teens. It's important to find a balance that works for your family, taking into account individual needs and circumstances. By being mindful of the potential impacts of excessive screen time and setting reasonable limits, we can help ensure our kids have a healthy relationship with technology.