Is it okay if my child spends time watching educational content online?

No. Even if your child spends time watching educational content online, it must be consumed in moderation. While online content can be educational, it should not replace play, reading, and real-world experiences.

How do I track my child’s screen time?

Today, we have many built-in parental controls or apps to monitor usage. Additionally, you can also set alarms or keep simple daily logs to track your child’s screen time.

Should I allow my child to eat while watching TV?

No. Try to avoid it. Eating while watching TV can affect your child’s digestion and eating habits. Instead, encourage mindful eating habits without any digital distractions.

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Today, screens can be found everywhere. Most homes are equipped with TVs, tablets, smartphones, video games, and other smart devices. As a parent, the thought of your child spending too much time on screen must be worrying you. On one hand, you want them to make the most of technology, on the other, you don’t want technology to completely take over them.

Finding the right balance towards healthy screen time is important. While this may be challenging, with the right approaches, you can ensure your child does not indulge in a lot of screen time. By following some simple tips, you can guide your little one towards healthy screen habits while keeping play, sleep, and family time a priority.

Why should I care about how much screen time my child has?

Screen time is not about mobiles, TVs, or tablets. Several studies have shown that excessive exposure to screens can affect your child’s mental and physical health. It can also affect their attention and behaviour. Studies show that giving too much screen time is linked to:

How much screen time is healthy for different ages?

Indian Academy of Pediatrics Guidelines for Screen Time for children suggest:

Children below 2 years should not have any screen time, except for occasional video calls with family.
For children aged 2 to 5 years, screen time should be limited to a maximum of 1 hour a day. Lesser screen time is even better.
Older children and teenagers can have up to 2 hours of recreational screen time daily (not counting online classes).
Screen time should never replace important daily activities like physical play (at least 1 hour a day), enough sleep (8–9 hours for teens), schoolwork, meals, hobbies, and family time.

NOTE: If screen use starts affecting these areas, it means the screen time is excessive and needs to be reduced.

How can I manage screen time effectively at home?

There are several measures you can take as a parent to limit and manage your child’s screen time effectively.

Set clear rules and expectations: Decide how much screen time your child is allowed to have. Decide when devices can be used, and what content is acceptable.
Create tech-free zones: Mealtimes, bedrooms, and at least one evening per week can be screen-free.
Schedule active play: Outdoor activities, creative projects, or hobbies reduce screen time while supporting healthy development.
Use parental controls: Block inappropriate content, set time limits, and monitor usage.
Be involved: Watch, play, and discuss content with your child. Use screens as an opportunity to teach lessons about kindness, advertising, and online safety.
Gradual reduction works best: If your child’s screen time is high, cut it slowly, say 15 minutes a day, until you reach your goal.

How can I ensure screen time is high-quality?

To ensure your child’s screen time is of high quality:

Preview content: Know what your child is watching or playing.
Discuss what you watch: Turn passive viewing into active learning by asking questions and connecting stories to real life.
Choose educational and interactive options: Shows that improve creativity, teamwork, or problem-solving are good to watch.
Avoid overstimulating content: Fast-paced visuals, violent themes, or excessive ads can overwhelm young minds.

How do I handle older children and teens?

To handle older children and teens, follow these simple tips:

Show good habits yourself. Children learn most of the things by watching you.
Let your child help make a screen time routine. It will teach them how to manage their own use.
Set clear limits for social media, gaming, and shows. Make sure screens don’t affect sleep, homework, or playtime.
Teach them to be safe online. Create awareness about no oversharing and what to do if someone is unkind.
Keep phones and tablets out of bedrooms. Have some screen-free zones at home, like during meals or family time.

How can I make screens work for my child?

As a parent, too much screen time hampering your child’s growth can be concerning. But remember that screen time is not inherently bad. When used mindfully, it can actually be a great learning tool. To make screen time work for your child:

Link it with efforts and achievements.
Watch shows or programs with your child to make it fun and interactive. This can also be used as a bonding opportunity.
Choose apps or programs that engage thinking, creativity, or problem-solving rather than passive scrolling.

Your concern about too much screen time affecting your child is justified. However, you cannot deprive them completely, as screens are present everywhere. Hence, giving limited, yet quality, screen time can help. With simple, practical tips, you can learn how to manage screen use while supporting your child’s learning, play, and well-being.

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FAQs on The Only Guide You Need to Manage Screen Time for Your Little Ones

Is it okay if my child spends time watching educational content online?
No. Even if your child spends time watching educational content online, it must be consumed in moderation. While online content can be educational, it should not replace play, reading, and real-world experiences.
How do I track my child’s screen time?
Today, we have many built-in parental controls or apps to monitor usage. Additionally, you can also set alarms or keep simple daily logs to track your child’s screen time.
Should I allow my child to eat while watching TV?
No. Try to avoid it. Eating while watching TV can affect your child’s digestion and eating habits. Instead, encourage mindful eating habits without any digital distractions.