How much screen-time is appropriate for your child?

In today's digital age, children are exposed to screens from an early age, making it crucial for parents and caregivers to establish healthy screen time habits. Understanding how much screen time is appropriate at different stages of development is essential for promoting a balanced lifestyle that includes learning, physical activity, and social interactions. Additionally, as children navigate the online world, fostering their digital intelligence is key to ensuring they grow into responsible and safe digital citizens. This guide provides recommended screen time limits based on age and highlights the core digital skills necessary for children's well-being in the digital era.

Up to 2 years: No exposure to mobile or digital screens is recommended during this period.

2 to 6 years: Screen time should be limited to a maximum of 30 minutes per day, broken into smaller intervals. Content must be age-appropriate and viewed under adult supervision. Avoid high-speed content.

6 to 12 years: Limit screen time to a maximum of one hour per day, which includes both TV and mobile devices. Screen time should be broken into segments of no more than 20 minutes, followed by a break. The total screen time should be balanced with study, homework, and playtime. The one-hour limit can be adjusted based on individual needs.

12 to 18 years: A maximum of two hours per day is recommended. The same conditions apply as in the previous age group.

Reference: American Academy of Paediatrics , Indian Association of Child and Adolescent Mental Health.

Digital quotient among kids

• Digital citizen identity: Ensure a healthy personality and strong character both online and offline.
• Screen time management: Train children in self-regulation of screen time.
• Cyberbullying management: Develop skills to identify and smartly handle troublemakers in the cyber world.
• Cybersecurity management: Understand the importance of protecting personal information and implement best practices.
• Digital empathy: Recognize issues in the digital world and support those experiencing real problems.
• Safe digital footprints: Be aware of which digital spaces to engage in and which to avoid.
• Critical thinking: Cultivate the ability to identify false information online, seek the truth, and develop the habit of questioning.
• Privacy management: Prevent invasions of privacy.

(Reference: World Economic Forum.)