In today’s digital age, fostering healthy screen time habits for your child is crucial. At Mt. Elizabeth Academy in Kennesaw, Georgia, we understand the significance of guiding parents in navigating this aspect of early childhood development. In this blog, we’ll explore the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) screen time guidelines and provide practical suggestions for balancing screen time for daycare, preschool, and toddler-aged children in early learning environments.

Understanding the AAP Screen Time Guidelines

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers guidelines to help parents make informed decisions about screen time for young children:

1. For Children Younger Than 18 Months:

• Avoid the use of screen media, except for video chatting.
• Choose high-quality programming if introducing digital media.

2. For Children Aged 18 to 24 Months:

• Introduce high-quality programming with a caregiver, emphasizing educational content.
• Avoid solo media use.

3. For Children Aged 2 to 5 Years:

• Limit screen time to one hour per day of high-quality programming.
• Co-view media with children to help them understand content.

Now, let’s delve into practical tips for implementing these guidelines in your parenting journey:

1. Create a Family Screen Time Policy:

• Establish a clear screen time policy for your family, outlining the permitted duration and types of content.
• Communicate the policy with caregivers or other family members to ensure consistency.

2. Prioritize Interactive Learning:

• Opt for educational apps and programs that encourage interaction rather than passive viewing.
• Select apps and games that align with your child’s developmental stage and promote skill development.

3. Integrate Screen Time into Learning Activities:

• Use screen time as a supplement to hands-on learning experiences.
• Incorporate educational videos or interactive apps that reinforce concepts introduced during other activities.

4. Outdoor Play and Physical Activities:

• Emphasize the importance of outdoor play and physical activities to balance screen time.
• Designate specific periods for outdoor play to encourage social interaction and physical exercise.

5. Monitor Content Quality:

• Regularly review and curate digital content to ensure it aligns with educational goals.
• Choose content that introduces diverse perspectives and fosters cultural awareness.

6. Establish Screen-Free Zones:

• Designate certain areas of your home as screen-free zones to promote social interaction and hands-on play.
• Ensure that meal times and outdoor play areas remain screen-free.

7. Engage in Screen Time Together:

• Co-view media with your child to enhance their understanding and encourage dialogue.
• Use screen time as an opportunity for shared learning and bonding.

8. Provide Alternatives to Screen Time:

• Offer a variety of age-appropriate activities such as arts and crafts, storytelling, and music to engage your child without screens.
• Rotate toys and materials regularly to keep the environment stimulating.

9. Model Healthy Screen Time Habits:

• Demonstrate healthy screen time habits by using screens intentionally and purposefully.
• Showcase responsible media use as a positive example for your child.

10. Individualize Screen Time Plans:

• Recognize that each child is unique, and their screen time needs may vary.
• Observe your child’s preferences and adjust screen time plans accordingly.

Empowering Parents in Screen Time Choices

At Mt. Elizabeth Academy, we acknowledge the role of parents as primary influencers in their child’s development. By providing practical suggestions for balancing screen time, we aim to empower parents to make informed decisions that align with the best practices recommended by the AAP.

If you’re interested in learning more about our approach to early childhood education or seeking guidance on screen time habits, please feel free to contact us. We’re here to support you in creating a nurturing environment that promotes your child’s overall well-being and development.