In today’s world, screens are everywhere – TVs, tablets, smartphones, computers and even smartwatches. These devices can be helpful for learning, entertainment and staying in touch. However, knowing how to limit screen time can help you teach them a healthy balance.
If you’ve ever asked your child to put down a screen and been met with groans or eye rolls, you’re not alone. Too much screen time can affect a child’s mental health, sleep and even their behavior. Learning how to limit screen time for kids isn’t always easy, but it is possible.
If you’re struggling with how much time your child spends focused on electronic devices, make an appointment with your pediatrician or family medicine provider to discuss any recommendations they may have.
Why limiting screen time matters
Kids today spend more time looking at screens than ever before. Some children spend several hours a day watching TV, playing video games or scrolling through social media. While a little screen time can be fun and even educational, too much can lead to problems like:
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Increased risk of anxiety or depression
- Poor focus or grades in school
- Less time spent on physical activity
- Mood swings or irritability
“Studies have shown that kids are watching more than they should,” says Benjamin Brocker, DO, a primary care physician in our Youngstown market. “They’re more prone to develop some issues with their emotions, while underlying mood disorders can develop with more screen time.”
How to limit screen time
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen time to an hour or less for kids ages 2 to 5 and to avoid screens entirely for kids younger than 2. However, that’s not always realistic.
Finding the right balance to help your child develop healthier habits now and in the future.
Set a daily limit
One of the easiest ways to reduce screen time is to set time limits. Talk to your child about how many hours a day are OK for screens, and be clear about which activities count. For example, watching TV and playing games may be limited, while using a tablet for schoolwork might not count toward the daily total.
For most school-aged kids, aim for no more than one to two hours of non-school screen time per day. This allows room for fun but still leaves plenty of time for other important activities like homework, exercise and sleep.
Use built-in parental controls
Most electronic devices today include settings to help parents manage screen time. In the settings app on your child’s device, you can:
- Tap Screen Time to view how much time is spent on each app
- Set app limits so certain apps can only be used for a short period
- Schedule downtime when only certain apps or features are allowed
- Use parental controls to block certain content or websites
These tools can make it easier to follow the rules, especially for kids who have difficulty turning things off on their own.
“The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that if you are going to allow your kids to watch TV or watch anything on the screen, you should watch it with them,” Dr. Brocker adds.
Make screen-free zones
Creating areas in your home where screens aren’t allowed can help set clear boundaries. Try making bedrooms, the dinner table and family time screen-free zones.
This encourages your child to be more present and helps improve sleep and family connection. Try to avoid screens at least an hour before bedtime to give your child’s brain time to wind down.
Encourage other activities
Kids often reach for screens when they’re bored. Help your child find other things to do by offering screen-free options like:
- Reading books or comics
- Playing board games or puzzles
- Going outside to ride a bike, play sports or explore
- Doing crafts, coloring, or building with blocks
- Helping cook a meal or bake something together
You can also spend time together doing fun activities that don’t involve screens. Family walks, movie nights or playing card games are all great ways to connect without electronics.
Be a role model
Kids often copy what they see. If they notice you spending a lot of time on your phone or tablet, they may be less likely to follow screen time rules. Try to follow the same limits you set for them. That means putting your phone away during meals, talking face-to-face instead of texting and turning off screens before bed.
Let your child see that you enjoy activities that don’t involve a screen. It will make it easier for them to do the same.
Talk about “why”
Instead of saying “No more screen time,” explain why limiting screen time is important. Talk about how too much screen time can affect sleep, learning and mood. Discuss how it’s good to balance screen use with other healthy habits.
When kids understand the reason behind the rules, they’re more likely to follow them and feel like they’re part of the decision-making process.
Stick to the plan (but be flexible)
Consistency is important, but it’s OK to make exceptions. Watching a movie on a rainy day, playing a video game with friends or using a tablet on a long car ride are all examples where extra screen time might make sense.
Try not to use screen time as a reward or punishment. Instead, treat it as part of a balanced day.
Revisit the rules as your child grows
The rules for how to limit screen time change as children get older. What works for a 6-year-old might not work for a 12-year-old. Involve them in setting new rules and limits. Teach them to use screens responsibly and discuss what they see online, especially on social media.
Open conversations about screen use can help kids make smart choices on their own.
How we can help
If you’re concerned about your child’s screen time and how it might affect their health or behavior, make an appointment with your child’s pediatrician or family medicine provider. They can offer advice based on your child’s age, routine and mental health while working with you to create a plan that fits your family.
Learn about the pediatric and family medicine services we offer at Mercy Health.
