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Navigating Screen Time: A Guide for Parents

Many parents share the same concerns about how much time their children spend in front of screens. —whether it’s TV, tablets, or smartphones—wondering what’s okay. How much is too much? It’s a valid worry, and finding the right balance is essential. But how?

Guidelines from the Experts

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers valuable guidelines to help navigate this complex issue:

  • For children under 18 to 24 months: It’s best to avoid digital media, except for video chatting like FaceTime with grandparents.
  • For toddlers (18 to 24 months): If you choose to introduce digital media, opt for high-quality programming and more importantly, watch the show or play the mobile game together with your child.
  • For kids aged 2 to 5 years: Limit screen use to 1 hour of high-quality programming per day, watch together, discuss content, and relate it to the real world.


Beyond Screen Time

While these guidelines provide a helpful framework, research shows that quality matters more than quantity. Focus on the “three C’s”:

  • Content:
    • Consider what your child is consuming during screen time. Does the media encourage critical thinking, creativity, or problem-solving? Is it relevant to their real-life experiences? Does it promote positive values? 
    • As long as the content your child is engaging with is enriching, and fosters a positive experience for your child, screen time can be valuable.
    • At WonJo, our content is designed with education and psychology experts to ensure it’s educational and developmentally appropriate, providing a quality alternative for your child’s screen time.
  • Context:
    • Consider when and how screen time is used. Are you using screen time to calm down your child or during meal times? Is your child alone when watching or playing something on screen? 
    • As long as your child doesn’t spend too much time alone using screens, and they’re not used to control behavior or as rewards/punishments, but rather as a moderate part of their routine, it can contribute positively to their development. 
    • At WonJo, we invite you to consume our content together with your child. Explore our e-books as a team!
  • Your Child:
    • Consider who is using the screen time. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. How old is your child? What are her interests? How is her mood today?
    • As long as screen time is tailored to your child’s specific needs, preferences, and mood, it can support their development.
    • At WonJo, we understand the importance of tailored content. Our games, songs, videos, and e-books cater to diverse needs and interests across different age groups.

Practical Tips

  1. Acknowledge Real-Life Challenges
    As a parent, it’s essential to recognize that life isn’t always straightforward. Whether you’re a single parent, have a demanding work schedule, or face health issues, it’s okay to find screen time limits challenging. Remember: You’re doing your best, and flexibility is key.
  2. The Three C’s: Content, Context, and Your Child
    • Content: Prioritize quality over quantity. Choose media that engages your child actively and aligns with positive themes.
      1. Instead of letting your child mindlessly scroll through random videos on a video-sharing platform, consider apps that encourage problem-solving skills, such as puzzles or math games.
    • Context: We know it can be tough, but do your best to be mindful of when and where screens are used. Avoid using them during meals or as a quick fix for calming down as much as possible, and try to share screen time with your child.
      1. Instead of using your tablet as a pacifier during a tantrum, try engaging your child in a calming storytelling app or listening to soothing music together to help them relax.
    • Your Child: Customize your approach based on your child’s unique needs and interests.
      1. For instance, if your child is particularly interested in dinosaurs, find apps that align with this interest, fostering their curiosity and passion for learning.
  3. Setting Boundaries
    Set clear boundaries before your child starts using devices. Discuss screen time rules when everyone is calm and receptive. Once you’ve established limits, stick to them as much as possible. Consistency helps children understand expectations.
  4. Structured Routines
    Children love structure and predictability. Set specific screen time slots and communicate them to your child. Implementing consistent screen-free periods, like an hour before bedtime or during meal times, can help in maintaining a healthy relationship with media.

Remember, finding the right balance isn’t about perfection—it’s about thoughtful choices that suit your family’s unique dynamics!