Healthy Screen Time Habits for Toddlers: A Guide for Parents

Introduction

Screen time is an inevitable part of modern life, but for young children, too much exposure can impact their development. Establishing healthy screen time habits early helps toddlers learn, play, and grow in a balanced way. This guide provides practical strategies to ensure your child develops a positive relationship with technology while maintaining a well-rounded routine.

1. Set Age-Appropriate Screen Time Limits

The Australian Government’s Department of Health and Aged Care recommends:

• Under 2 years: Avoid screen time, except for video chatting with family.
• 2 to 5 years: Limit screen use to no more than one hour per day of high-quality content.
• 5+ years: Encourage healthy screen habits and balance it with active play and other activities.

These guidelines help ensure screen time supports, rather than hinders, a child’s social, emotional, and physical development.

2. Choose Quality Content

Not all screen time is created equal. Opt for interactive and educational programs designed for toddlers. Platforms like the ABC Kids app and Play School offer engaging, age-appropriate content that promotes learning.

Whenever possible, co-view with your child to help them understand what they’re watching, ask questions, and encourage learning through discussion.

3. Create Screen-Free Zones and Times

Setting boundaries for screen use helps build a healthier routine. Consider implementing:

• Screen-free mealtimes to encourage family conversations.
• No screens in bedrooms to improve sleep quality.
• A digital curfew at least one hour before bedtime to help children wind down.

These small changes can significantly improve sleep patterns, attention spans, and overall behaviour.

4. Encourage Alternative Activities

To prevent screens from becoming a default activity, offer engaging alternatives like:

• Outdoor play – Running, climbing, and exploring promote physical and cognitive development.
• Creative activities – Drawing, painting, and crafts help develop fine motor skills and creativity.
• Reading together – Books foster language development and a love for storytelling.

Balancing screen time with real-world experiences ensures a well-rounded childhood.

5. Be a Positive Role Model

Children learn by watching adults. If they see parents constantly glued to a screen, they’re likely to mimic the behaviour. Set a good example by:

• Taking regular breaks from screens yourself.
• Engaging in screen-free activities as a family.
• Using screens mindfully, such as avoiding devices during family time.

By modelling healthy screen habits, you naturally encourage your child to do the same.

6. Use Parental Controls and Safe Viewing Options

Technology offers tools to help manage screen time effectively. Consider:

• Parental controls on devices to block inappropriate content.
• Screen time management apps to set daily limits.
• Child-friendly streaming services that offer pre-screened, age-appropriate content.

These tools help ensure your child’s screen experience is both safe and beneficial.

7. Avoid Screens Before Bedtime

Excessive screen use, especially in the evening, can disrupt sleep. Blue light emitted from screens can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder for children to fall asleep. To improve sleep quality:

• Turn off screens at least an hour before bedtime.
• Encourage relaxing activities like reading or listening to soft music before sleep.
• Use night mode settings on devices to reduce blue light exposure if screens must be used.

Final Thoughts

Screen time is not inherently bad, but it should be used in moderation and balanced with other enriching activities. By setting clear limits, choosing high-quality content, and leading by example, parents can help toddlers develop a healthy relationship with screens while ensuring they grow, learn, and play in a well-rounded way.