“I think my daughter is getting too much screen time,” a friend confessed recently as we sat down at a restaurant with our families. As she spoke, she handed her toddler a tablet — “just so the adults can talk.” I understood completely. I’ve done the same, and yes, I felt guilty too.
But as both a parent and an educator, I’ve taken a deeper look into the research on screen time. What I discovered is actually reassuring. With thoughtful boundaries and clear distinctions, screen use doesn’t have to be something to fear — and it can even be beneficial.
What Is “Screen Time” Really?
“Screen time” is often treated as a catch-all term, but it’s far too vague. There’s a vast difference between a child watching hours of unsupervised videos online and one playing an age-appropriate game with a sibling. Screens can include TV, video games, educational apps, coding platforms, or digital homework. The *type* of screen use matters more than the *amount* of time alone. Parents can be more intentional by asking: What is my child doing, and how are they engaging with it?
When Screen Time Can Be Beneficial
Screen use can support learning, creativity, and even social interaction. It may be positive when it includes:
- Educational apps and coding platforms
- Age-appropriate, interactive video games, especially those involving building or strategy
- Games played with siblings or friends
- Physical games like Wii Sports, which support motor skills
- Movies or shows watched together as a family
When Screen Time Should Be Limited
Moderation is key — especially for screen use that’s passive or solitary. It should be limited when it includes:
- Non-interactive use (e.g., watching shows or YouTube videos alone)
- Activities with no social or educational value
When Screen Time Should Be Avoided
Parents should intervene or restrict screen access entirely when it involves:
- Unsupervised internet browsing or video watching
- Games that are not age-appropriate or involve violent content
The Hidden Cost: What Screen Time Replaces
The issue isn’t just what screens do — it’s also what they displace. If children spend all their time on screens, they’re not playing outside, being physically active, socializing, or exploring their creativity. A balanced day might include sports, reading, imaginative play, and then some video games or a movie.
During that restaurant outing, we first spent time playing and reading with my friend’s toddler before the meal. She was cheerful and engaged, and later, when she became restless, her mother gave her the tablet — a perfectly balanced compromise. Screens don’t have to replace quality time — they can complement it when used wisely.
The Long-Term Upside of Screen Use
Technology is not going away — and nor should it. Today, screens are not just entertainment devices; they’re tools for learning, research, creativity, and communication. Preventing children from using them entirely can limit their access to a world of opportunity. The goal should be to equip children to use technology effectively, safely, and thoughtfully.
The Power of Role Modeling
Children imitate what they see. If we’re glued to our devices but ask them to unplug, the message gets lost. But if we demonstrate intentional habits — like putting phones down during conversations, engaging with them directly, or establishing screen-free times during meals — our example becomes the lesson.
Even small adjustments can make a difference. I often hide my phone and pick up a book when my kids get home — and yes, they notice. Our behavior is our most powerful parenting tool.
Final Thoughts
Today’s screens are more interactive, personalized, and dynamic than ever before. Rather than banning them outright, we should aim to guide our children with balance, presence, and purpose. With the right approach, we can raise confident, mindful users of technology — prepared not just to consume content, but to create, question, and lead in a digital world.
Article adapted from insights by an international educator and scholar in child development