How much screen time is too much for young children?

The American Academy of Pediatrics has updated its guidelines on how much screen time is appropriate for kids using a “5 C’s” approach.

The 5 C's of media use are based on the child, the content, ways to calm down, what media is crowding out and ongoing communication. 5 C's guidance for each age group starts with information about the developmental stages kids are going through and how this influences media use. It also describes healthy media habits to strive for at home. You can use these to build upon how you're already connecting with your kids.

Child: Kids are different and don’t have the same risks and benefits from media. The AAP suggests parents consider how their child is influenced by what they see and what type of content they’re seeking. Does media help support an artistic or musical talent? Is social media feeding your child’s anxiety?

Content: Research shows that content quality shapes whether kids have positive or negative relationships with media. Learn about what your kids play or watch. Help them think about which videos and games they use that have too much violence, unrealistic beauty standards, or inappropriate role models.

Calm: All kids need to learn strategies for how to manage strong emotions or fall asleep at night, and sometimes media becomes their main go-to strategy. Help them find other ways to calm their brains and bodies down.

Crowding out: Too much screen time could be interfering with other activities your family cares about. Rather than focus on reducing their screen time, help them to realize what they may be getting back: quality family time, more sleep, external activities like going to the movies or other places, or playing with friends.

Communication: Talk about media early, and often. It’s one way your kids will build digital literacy and it can help you identify when your child or teen is struggling.