In today’s world, it seems as if every aspect of our lives are filled with technology – at the grocery store, at school, at work, literally EVERYWHERE!  Our children are drawn to electronic devices more than ever. Most parents struggle to balance their children’s time with television, tablets and other electronics. Between morning cartoons, homework on the computer, and the occasional “tablet babysitter” during a shopping trip, screens are simply part of life.

The good news is that screen time isn’t all bad. The key is to find balance. Here’s a breakdown of what’s recommended at different ages.

Small boy sitting at a dining room table using a tablet computer Infants & Toddlers (0–2 years)

For little ones, real-life interaction is the best teacher.

  • Under 18 months: No screen time (except for FaceTime or video calls with grandparents).
  • 18–24 months: If you introduce a show or app, pick something educational and snuggle up to watch together.

Remember,  Singing “The Wheels on the Bus” to your toddler will always teach them more than YouTube. But if you do turn on a short video, make it something you can talk about afterward (“Look, the puppy was chasing the ball!”).

Preschoolers (2–5 years)

Preschool kids are naturally curious and absorb everything like sponges.

  • Limit screen time to about 1 hour per day, and stick to quality, educational shows.
  • Watch with them when you can—your presence makes it more meaningful.

Morning cartoons while you get ready? Totally fine. Just balance it with active play later.

School-Aged Kids (6–12 years)

At this stage, video games, YouTube, and TikTok start competing with one on one time. Children are often required to work on tablets as part of their schoolwork, so limiting can get challenging.

  • Try to limit children to no more than 2 hours of fun screen time per day, NOT including schoolwork.
  • Set some important priorities:  a good night’s sleep, play time outside, and meals without devices.

To help with “unplugging” create “tech-free zones.” For example, no phones or tablets at the dinner table.

Teens (13–18 years)

Let’s be honest—teens are glued to their phones. Instead of fighting constant battles, work with them to find balance.

  • Encourage device-free time before bed Screen time can affect sleeping patterns, so encourage your teens to step away before turning in for the night.
  • Keep conversations open about what they’re watching online or how they are using social media.
  • Try tech-free family activities: game night, cooking together, or a hike.

Teens will roll their eyes at limits, but deep down, they notice when you set boundaries—and it helps them set their own.

Some additional thoughts.

  • Be a role model: Don’t scroll your phone during dinner and don’t “doom scroll” right before bed.
  • Schedule screen breaks for everyone.
  • Celebrate non-screen activities—reading, building forts, backyard play, crafts, sports.

Screens aren’t going away, and that’s okay. What matters most is how your family uses them. By setting reasonable limits, choosing quality content, and carving out tech-free time, you’ll help your child develop a healthy relationship with screens—and create more space for the moments that matter most.