Guest Post: Navigating Screen Time in Early Childhood
It’s no secret that too much screen time can throw off a child’s bedtime routine or cut into playtime that’s critical for their physical and social development. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests keeping it simple: no screens for kids under 2 (except for video chats) and only an hour a day for children between 2 and 5, focusing on high-quality programming.
Despite the downsides, there's a silver lining to screen use. Educational apps and shows from trusted creators like Sesame Workshop and PBS Kids have been lifesavers, offering engaging ways to introduce concepts like ABCs and 123s. We want to choose programs that are age-appropriate and foster curiosity rather than passive consumption.
My Top Tips for a Balanced Screen Diet
Pick Quality Content: Just like we watch what our kids eat, let’s be selective about what they watch. Look for programs that are educational and free of fast-paced, flashy distractions.
Set Clear Boundaries: Consistency is everything. Set clear rules about when screens are allowed and when they’re not, and stick to them as much as possible.
Watch Together: Whenever you can, sit down and watch with your kids. This lets us talk about what they're seeing and connect it back to things they know or have experienced, which turns screen time into a shared, interactive moment.
Designate Screen-free Spaces: Let’s make spaces like bedrooms a no-screen zone, which helps signal that these spaces are for sleeping and relaxing, not digital play.
Encourage Other Activities: Let’s also look for ways to get our kids playing outside or with toys that don’t have a power button. It’s important they learn to find joy and engagement in activities that don’t involve screens.
Finding the perfect balance of screen time can feel daunting, but by setting thoughtful guidelines and actively participating in how our children engage with digital media, we can make sure technology acts as a tool for learning and growth, not just a way to pass the time. It’s all about creating a healthy media diet that works for each child’s needs and the family’s values. Here’s to navigating the digital age with a little more confidence and a lot more heart!
Dr. Tyana Velazquez-Smith is the Director of Early Childhood at Rochester Area Community Foundation. With a doctorate in Teaching and Curriculum from the University of Rochester, Dr. Velazquez-Smith is an adjunct instructor at U of R, teaching courses like Race, Class, Gender & Disability in American Schools. She is the Founder and CEO of Sensational Inclusion, dedicated to building equitable educational ecosystems. Dr. Velazquez-Smith is a native Rochestarian, passionate activist, educator, and dedicated researcher.