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