Today's children are a digital generation, growing up with tablets, smartphones, and computers. It's something we can't completely avoid, especially with the rise of online learning.

While these devices offer educational and entertainment benefits, we can't ignore their potential impact on your child's health and social behaviors. That's why we've put together 5 golden rules to help you achieve the right balance, so your child can enjoy screens safely and healthily.

Rule #1: Screens are a No-No for Kids Under 2

Screens of all kinds should be avoided for children under 18 months (except for occasional video calls). If your child is between 18 months and 2 years old, you can allow a little screen time, provided that the programs are educational and under your supervision.

Why?

• Your child learns a lot about the world around them at this stage through their senses and interactions with objects and people.
• Your child needs to talk to you and play with you to learn a new language and important social skills.
• Play and movement help your child develop motor skills and increase physical activity, protecting them from modern diseases like obesity.

Rule #2: Set a Specific Time

There's no magic number that suits all children when it comes to allowed screen time. What's more important is the quality of the content they watch, how much they benefit from it, and the balance between screen time and movement and other activities to support healthy growth and development.

But if you're looking for guidance, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has recommended the following:

• For children aged 2 to 5 years: Limit screen time to one hour per day for educational and purposeful programs only.
• For older children and adolescents: Regardless of the number of hours, it's important to ensure that screen use doesn't affect the child's sleep, physical activity, or time spent with family and friends.

Before deciding on the allowed screen time for your child, consider the following:

• Start gradually: If your children already spend a lot of time in front of screens, start by setting smaller and more realistic goals, such as reducing the current screen time in half to start.
• Make your child part of the decision: Discuss these new rules with them, as children are more likely to cooperate if they participate in the decision-making process and are explained the reasons behind the need for more time than specified.

Rule #3: Set Screen-Free Zones/Times

This rule can help you better control things. Here are some ideas:

• Don't allow devices in the bedroom for young children.
• Stop using all screens in the bedroom after a certain time for older children.
• Stop using all screens at least one hour before bedtime.
• Turn off all devices during family meal times.
• Avoid using devices in the car, on trips, or during family visits.
• Charge devices at night in a place your child cannot reach, and away from their bedroom.

Rule #4: Stay Informed

Don't leave your child alone with screens without being part of the activity; so that you can be aware of what they are watching and assess its suitability for their age.

• Check programs, games, and apps before allowing your child to watch or play them.
• Choose purposeful programs or interactive games that can help develop their skills instead of worthless activities.
• Use parental controls to block content that is inappropriate for children online.
• Remove ads from apps and videos.
• Make sure your child is near you during screen time, so you can monitor their activities.
• Ask your child regularly about the programs and games they played during the day.

Rule #5: Stick to the Rules

Children, by nature, are persistent and may try to go beyond the rules you have set for them regarding screen time. Therefore, it is essential to be consistent in applying all the rules you have agreed upon.

If your child violates one of the rules you have agreed upon, for example, playing on the tablet outside of the permitted times, you can discuss the consequences of these situations with your child and agree on them in advance, such as being deprived of using it for a full day, for example.

What are the Alternatives?

Encourage your children to engage in alternative activities to screens to make the best use of their time. Here are some ideas:

• Encourage sports of all kinds, such as football, swimming, and cycling.
• Enjoy a walk in the park or an adventure in the forest together.
• Design a set of recreational activities inside your home to spend time in, such as a ball pit and swings.
• Enroll your child in educational and recreational clubs according to their preferences, such as crafts or cooking programs.
• Set aside an hour to read together, or encourage them to read books on their own.
• Promote group games, such as board games or puzzles.

Final Message

‍Although adhering to the rules is very important, it is essential to be flexible and understanding of your child's needs, which change over time. The needs of a 7-year-old child are very different when they grow up and become 15 years old, so be prepared to review these rules over time. And don't hesitate to offer some rewards for good behavior to encourage adherence to the rules.

Need more help?

If you need additional help determining the appropriate screen time for your child or developing an individual plan that suits them, our team in the Pediatrics Department at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital is ready to assist you. Book an appointment now.