Screen time guidelines provide age-specific recommendations from the AAP and WHO on how much screen time is appropriate for children, along with tips for healthy media habits and alternatives to screen use.
Screen Time Guidelines by Age
How much screen time is OK for your child? Get age-specific recommendations from the AAP and WHO.
Enter your child's age in months (0-144)
Effects of Excessive Screen Time
Sleep disruption
Blue light from screens suppresses melatonin and makes it harder to fall asleep
Language delays
Every 30 minutes of daily screen time is associated with a 49% increased risk of expressive speech delay in 18-month-olds
Attention problems
Fast-paced media is linked to shorter attention spans and difficulty with self-regulation
Reduced physical activity
Screen time displaces active play, contributing to childhood obesity
Social skill impacts
Excessive screen time can reduce face-to-face interaction, which is critical for developing social skills
Healthy Alternatives to Screen Time
- Read books together (aim for 15-20 minutes daily)
- Go outside — parks, nature walks, backyard play
- Build with blocks, Play-Doh, or craft supplies
- Have dance parties or play active games
- Cook or bake together (age-appropriate tasks)
- Draw, color, or paint
- Play pretend — dress-up, kitchen, superheroes
- Do puzzles, board games, or card games
Screen Time Recommendations by Age
Age: Under 18 months
Recommendation: Avoid screen time
Max Daily: Varies
Details: The AAP recommends no screen time for children under 18 months, with the exception of video chatting with family members. Babies learn best from face-to-face interactions.
Age: 18-24 months
Recommendation: Very limited, co-view only
Max Daily: 15 min
Details: If introducing screens, choose high-quality programming and watch together. Co-viewing helps children understand what they're seeing. Keep sessions short.
Age: 2-5 years
Recommendation: 1 hour or less per day
Max Daily: 60 min
Details: Limit screen time to 1 hour per day of high-quality programming. Continue to co-view and discuss content. Ensure screens don't replace physical activity, sleep, or social interaction.
Age: 5-12 years
Recommendation: Consistent limits, prioritize healthy habits
Max Daily: 120 min
Details: The AAP does not set a specific time limit for 6+ but recommends consistent limits that ensure screen time doesn't interfere with sleep (8-12 hours), physical activity (1+ hour/day), homework, and family time.
| Age | Recommendation | Max Daily | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 18 months | Avoid screen time | Varies | The AAP recommends no screen time for children under 18 months, with the exception of video chatting with family members. Babies learn best from face-to-face interactions. |
| 18-24 months | Very limited, co-view only | 15 min | If introducing screens, choose high-quality programming and watch together. Co-viewing helps children understand what they're seeing. Keep sessions short. |
| 2-5 years | 1 hour or less per day | 60 min | Limit screen time to 1 hour per day of high-quality programming. Continue to co-view and discuss content. Ensure screens don't replace physical activity, sleep, or social interaction. |
| 5-12 years | Consistent limits, prioritize healthy habits | 120 min | The AAP does not set a specific time limit for 6+ but recommends consistent limits that ensure screen time doesn't interfere with sleep (8-12 hours), physical activity (1+ hour/day), homework, and family time. |
Based on American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) media use recommendations.