Are you wondering how you can optimize screen time for your toddler so that their use of media stays controllable and supports their development? Should you opt for passive or active screen time for your little child? The following points are to help you manage your toddler's use of screens.
1. Is active or passive screen time better for my child?
The difference between active and passive use of screens is that by passive screen usage your kid doesn't engage actively with the content (such as watching TV). By active screen time, we mean the interactive use of media, such as playing games on the phone. If you stick to the total screen time recommended for your kid's age, both can support their growth as long as you go for high-quality content.
2. Suggested screen time by age
Screen time for babies until 18 months old should be zero and until 24 months old you should strictly limit their screen time and preferably participate in your child's media usage. Recommended screen time for toddlers and preschoolers (between ages 2 and 5) shouldn't exceed a daily limit of one hour.
3. The importance of choosing high-quality content
Educational apps for children, documentaries recommended for their age may be a great choice but there's more to it than the topic of the media. You should also consider going for content that does not interfere with the development of your kid's nervous system in a negative way. Too much stimulation (like rapid changes in visual and auditory effects) may be overwhelming for your kid's nervous system, therefore, you should opt for content with soothing animations, pleasant music and a relaxed change between scenes. See our educational app for toddlers we developed taking into account this important aspect.
4. Screen time and other activities
Make sure your child's screen time doesn't interfere with other important activities like social interactions, spending quality time with the family and friends, physical activities or sleeping. Define rules that help your child establish a healthy relationship with their media usage from an early age, such as no snacking while using screens, no electronic media in one or two hours before bedtime or no use of phones during mealtime. This will help prevent harmful effects of screen usage like sleep issues, obesity or harmful effects on mental health.
