Latest Guidelines on Screen Time for Children: What Parents Need to Know - Learn 7 Tips to Manage Screen Time Smartly

In today’s world, screens are everywhere. Mobile phones, tablets, televisions, and laptops can captivate children for hours. Kids love watching cartoons, playing games, or attending online classes. But how much screen time is appropriate? And how can parents manage it healthily?

Let’s break it down with the latest expert advice and some easy tips!

What Do the Latest Guidelines Say?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP):

• Children under 2 years: No screen time at all, except for video calls with family.

• Children aged 2–5 years: Maximum 1 hour per day (with adult supervision).

• Children aged 6–12 years: Maximum 1.5 to 2 hours per day (excluding schoolwork).

• Teens 13 years and above: Balanced usage — screen time should not interfere with sleep, physical activity, or family time.

  
  

Why Too Much Screen Time Is a Problem

Excessive screen time can lead to various issues:

• Sleep troubles: Blue light from screens can disrupt sleep patterns, making it difficult for kids to fall asleep.

• Less physical activity: Spending more time on screens often means less running, jumping, or playing outdoors.

• Mood changes: Prolonged screen time may result in irritability, anger, or lack of focus in children.

• Poor eating habits: Eating while watching screens can lead to overeating or poor digestion.

  
  

Real-life Example

Meet Aarav, a 7-year-old boy. During summer vacation, he began watching cartoons for 3-4 hours daily. This new routine made him cranky. He struggled to sleep on time and lost interest in playing outside. When his parents reduced his screen time and introduced fun offline activities—like drawing and puzzles—he slowly became more cheerful and active.

7 Tips to Manage Screen Time Smartly

Managing screen time can be simple with these straightforward tips:

1. Set a Daily Limit

   Establish a rule—like “Only 1 hour of screen time after homework.” This gives kids a clear expectation.

   
   

2. Create Screen-Free Zones

   Designate areas of the home where screens are not allowed. For example, no screens during meals or in the bedroom. This promotes better sleep and family bonding.

   
   

3. Be a Role Model

   Children observe their parents. If you're constantly on your phone, they will likely want to mimic that behavior. Limit your own screen time as well.

   
   

4. Offer Alternatives

   Encourage kids to engage in board games, storybooks, gardening, or help out in the kitchen. These activities can be both fun and screen-free.

   
   

5. Use Screens Together

   Watching an educational video or cartoon with your child can be a shared experience. Discuss the content afterwards to make it interactive.

   
   

6. Use Parental Controls

   Many devices come with built-in tools to block unsafe content or set screen timers on apps. Take advantage of these features.

   
   

7. Keep a Routine

   Establish a daily schedule that includes time for study, play, meals, and rest. This routine helps children know what to expect and reduces their dependence on screens.

   
   

Fun and Engaging Offline Activity Ideas

Here are some fun offline activities that boost creativity, learning, and bonding—no screens required! 🎨🧩🌿

🎨 1. DIY Craft Time

Create puppets, greeting cards, paper flowers, or photo frames using old newspapers, colors, glue, and scissors. Crafting engages kids' creativity and fine motor skills.

🧁 2. Kitchen Helpers

Get kids involved in the kitchen! Let them help make chapati shapes, roll cookie dough, or assemble sandwiches. Cooking together builds life skills and promotes teamwork.

🪴 3. Nature Hunt

Take a walk in the garden or park and create a checklist of leaves, flowers, insects, or colors to discover. This can enhance their observation skills and appreciation for nature.

📚 4. Story Time & Role Play

Read a story to your child and then act it out using costumes or soft toys. This encourages imagination and boosts confidence.

🎲 5. Board Games & Puzzles

Spend some quality family time playing Ludo, Snakes & Ladders, Uno, Jenga, or tackling jigsaw puzzles together. These activities promote teamwork and critical thinking.

🧘 6. Yoga & Breathing Games

Make deep breathing fun with exercises like “smell the flower, blow out the candle.” Introducing animal yoga poses can also provide physical benefits.

🎤 7. Talent Time

Have a “show and tell,” dance-off, or mini talent show at home. Kids love showcasing their talents and it strengthens family bonds.

Final Thought

Screens are not bad — they can be helpful if used wisely. The key is balance. Encourage children to explore the real world, engage in conversations, play, and use screens as a tool—not a babysitter.

If you're ever in doubt or feel your child is spending too much time on screens, don’t hesitate to talk to your pediatrician. Dr. Ajay is available to answer your questions. Click here to send your queries.