As technology continues to evolve, parents are faced with the challenge of determining how much device time their children should have. For parents of children between the ages of two and seventeen, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends setting limits on device time.
For children under two years old, the AAP recommends zero screen time, except for video chatting with family or friends. This is because young children learn best through face-to-face interactions and physical play.
For children between two and five years old, the AAP recommends no more than one hour per day of co-viewing with a parent or sibling. Co-viewing is when a parent or sibling watches the same program as the child, and discusses it with them. This helps children understand what they are watching and provides an opportunity for parents to discuss important topics.
For children between five and seventeen years old, the AAP recommends no more than two hours per day of device time, except for homework. This includes all types of devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. This is because too much device time can interfere with a child’s physical and mental health, as well as their academic performance.
Parents should also consider setting time limits for specific activities. For example, parents may want to limit social media use to thirty minutes per day, or video game use to one hour per day. This helps ensure that children are using their device time for productive activities, such as doing homework or learning a new skill.
Parents should also be aware of the content their children are viewing. This includes making sure that the content is age-appropriate and does not contain any inappropriate language or images. Parents should also be aware of the amount of time their children are spending on certain activities, such as playing video games or watching videos.
Finally, parents should be aware of the potential risks associated with device use. This includes cyberbullying, online predators, and exposure to inappropriate content. Parents should also be aware of the potential for addiction, as well as the potential for children to become desensitized to violence.
Overall, the AAP recommends setting limits on device time for children between the ages of two and seventeen. Parents should also consider setting time limits for specific activities, as well as monitoring the content their children are viewing. By doing so, parents can help ensure that their children are using their device time responsibly and safely.
