Screentime
February 23, 2023

Parents: Balance Screen Time for Babies - (Here's How!)

Find out how to balance screen time for babies with our expert tips. Learn the importance of healthy screen habits for your child's development. Read now!
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Are you a parent of young children and feeling overwhelmed by the amount of screen time they have access to? 

Setting appropriate limits on your child's digital life can be difficult, but it doesn't have to be. 

In this article, we'll discuss why setting limits is important and provide simple strategies for setting healthy boundaries around screen time. 

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What Is Screen Time? 

Are you familiar with the term 'screen time'? 

If not, then don't worry! 

In this article, we will talk about screen time and its various aspects.

Let's dive in!

Screen time is a measure of how much you use digital devices such as computers, laptops, tablets and smartphones. 

It usually refers to the amount of time spent on apps or websites that are accessed through these devices. 

There are two types of screens: active and passive. Active screens involve interacting with content while passive screens do not require any interaction such as watching television or streaming video online. Common uses for screen-time include entertainment (gaming, movies), communication (texting, social media) and work/education (researching).

How Much Screen Time Should Babies Have? 

Guidelines from Pediatricians, Recommended Balance Between Physical Activities and Screens, Age-Appropriate Content Recommendations 

You must have heard that babies should not be exposed to screens, but what are the recommended limits?

Do you know how much screen-time is safe for your baby? 

Are there any age-appropriate content recommendations for babies and toddlers? 

Well, if you’re looking for answers to these questions, then this article is just right for you! 

Let's get started. 

First things first: pediatricians recommend no more than one hour per day of digital media/screen time exposure. This includes TV shows, videos and all other digital media platforms such as tablets or smartphones. 

Also, it is important to keep in mind that physical activities like playing with toys or reading books should remain a priority over digital devices.  

Secondly, the content consumed by babies should be age-appropriate according to their cognitive level and understanding abilities. For example; educational based apps are better suited for older children rather than young ones who might not understand its concept yet. Content meant purely for entertainment like cartoons can also be watched in moderation as long as it isn't too loud or visually overwhelming - both of which can become stressful and uncomfortable quickly!

Setting Limits for Baby’s Screen Time 

Are you worried about your baby’s screen time? 

Do you want to find alternatives and reduce their usage of gadgets? 

Well, it is not an easy task. 

But don't worry! We are here to help.

Here are some useful strategies that can help you set limits for your baby's screen time.

First, start by setting a strict limit on the number of hours per day they can spend in front of screens. 

Then, use timers or apps to track and monitor their device usage. And also make sure that devices aren't kept in bedrooms or any other places where there's no parental supervision. 

Next, try finding activities that will engage your child like reading books with them or playing board games together as family activities instead of screens. 

Encourage creative play with art supplies, toys and outdoor playtime such as parks and playgrounds too! 

Finally, provide positive reinforcement when they follow the rules – this will strengthen good habits while reducing bad ones over time!

Create A Healthy Digital Environment For Your Babies
Discover how to manage screen time for your babies with Opal
Get Started Now

Finding the Right Balance with Baby's Screen Time 

Making sure that Your Baby's Screen Time is Educational 

Do you feel overwhelmed when it comes to figuring out how much screen time your baby should have? You're not alone! As parents, navigating the balance between physical activity and quality media use can be tricky. But with a few simple tips, you can ensure that your baby's screen time is both educational and fun. 

First of all, it's important to set up a routine for your baby that includes both physical activity and media use. Make sure there are plenty of opportunities throughout the day for them to explore their environment through play or outdoor activities. 

This will help them stay active while they learn about the world around them. 

Second, make sure that the content your little one consumes on screens is age-appropriate and educational. Look for interactive apps or videos designed specifically for babies so they are learning as well as having fun with technology. 

And finally, limit their daily exposure to screens so they don't become overstimulated or frustrated by too many distractions during playtime or mealtime activities.

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