Toddlers and screen time – how much is too much?
For many parents, the battle over the use of devices and screen time has become a daily struggle. It’s the 21st century, and the reality is that there is no escaping screen time – screens are, quite literally, everywhere.
To advocate for no screen time at all is not only impractical, but it could limit your child’s learning in some ways. Certain activities and shows are educational and can help support your toddler’s social development, so it’s your duty as a parent to give screen time conscious consideration and to set some healthy boundaries.
How much screen time is too much?
A simple Google search will result in a wide range of opinions as to just how much screen time is healthy – or not – for your toddler, making it even more confusing for modern parents trying to navigate this tricky topic. Some argue that toddlers shouldn’t be exposed to any screen time, while others encourage moderate use of devices.
However, according to new guidelines published by the World Health Organisation (WHO), children between the ages of two to four should spend no more than one hour in front of screens each day – a suggestion echoed by educational consultant Josh Ramsey, who is founder of Be In Touch, an organisation that provides practical digital parenting tips, advice and solutions.
“To add up total screen time, parents should look at how much time their toddlers are spending in front of the TV, as well as on tablets and cell phones – not to mention other toddler-friendly gaming devices, such as Leap Pads,” says Ramsey.
Using screen time to aid bonding
“The majority of learning takes place when parents use devices alongside their toddlers, taking the time to ask their children questions, or simply pointing out things that are happening on screen,” Ramsey explains. This also encourages bonding.”
“The true cost of too much screen time – apart from its effects on your toddler’s eyes, brain, and posture – comes in the form of missing out on bonding experiences with your child,” he says. If screen time is replacing opportunities to read to your kids, do puzzles with them; or if it is limiting outdoor play and exercise, it may be time to relook your current use of devices. Like everything in life, it’s all about balance – and the sooner you implement healthy digital habits, the better!
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