What is “Screen Time”?
Screen time is the daily total time spent directly or indirectly looking at any screen, except for video chatting with loved ones.
 
Examples: watching YouTube videos, scrolling on the cell phone, TV show playing in the background while child plays with toys, etc.

Daily Recommended Screen Time by Age:
Under 2 years
• 0 hours
• Except video calls to loved ones

2 to 5 years
• 1 hour or less
• Watching with a caregiver is recommended

Over 5 years
• 2 hours or less of recreational screen time

Did You Know…
• Children learn language, social skills and play skills best through real life interactions, not through watching screens.
• Less screen time gives us more chances to play and talk.
• Toddlers who spend too much time watching screens are more likely to have speech and language difficulties.
• Screen time can make it harder for a child to learn to control their emotions and behaviour.
• Your child will learn from your screen time habits.

When We Use Screens
Limiting screen time can be hard. When you do use screens, keep these tips in mind:

Can I watch this program with my child?

You can talk about what’s happening, copy what’s on the screen and make connections with real life.

Why is the screen on?

Think about why the screen is on. Try not to use screen time for background noise.

What are we watching?

Pick quality programs that are made for children, fun, repetitive, and interactive (e.g., have actions for your child to copy).

References:

https://www.fraserhealth.ca/health-topics-a-to-z/children-and-youth/physical-activity-for-children/screen-time-for-children 

https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/sites/default/files/documents/TFS_screen-time.pdf 

https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/screen-time-overview 

Be Tech Wise With Toddler! | Children's Screen Time Action Network (screentimenetwork.org)

https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/behavior-and-development/screen-time-and-young-children