How much screen time is too much for your kids?

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Kids are counting down the days until summer break, and while some parents have started planning out their activities, there may be more time for children to use their devices instead of going outside to play. 

According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, children ages 8-12 spend four to six hours daily watching or using screens. For teens, it’s worse, with the average creeping up to nine hours daily. 

So, how much time should they really be spending on their devices?

• Dr. Arma Zuro, pediatrician with Novant Health
• Dr. Marie Trace, Behavioral Pediatrician for the Cleveland Clinic
• A study published in JAMA Pediatrics
• The American Academy of Pediatrics

Sometimes, it may seem easier to hand your kids devices to get a little peace and quiet.

“I have this conversation several times a day,” Zuro said. “We certainly understand that technology is here to stay and it’s very important to discuss it with your child’s pediatrician at each visit.”

Zuro knows there’s no way to really escape the screen, but for kids under 5, it’s important to think about how much time they spend looking at it. 

“Early exposure to screen time can affect development in children, especially if they are using it at 1 year old,” Zuro explained. “And it really depends on what kind of screen time it is and how much they’re using git.”

A study of more than 57,000 children found that too much screen time for 1-year-olds could lead to developmental delays, specifically when it comes to communication and problem-solving at ages 2 and 4. 

“If I am looking at a screen, there’s not a lot that’s being asked of me, right? Versus navigating my environment, playing with my toys, being outside.” Trace said.

So, where’s that sweet spot? 

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics and the CDC, here’s how much screen time kids should have, based on their age:

• Kids younger than 18 months should have no screen time except video chatting with family and friends.
• 18 to 24 months should only view educational videos with parental engagement
• Age 2 to 5, no more than one hour a day
• Age 5 and older, no more than 2 hours a day
• With pre-teens and teenagers, there is no one size that fits all. It varies by their mental health, social skills, physical activity and healthy habits

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