Good news for parents: the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has updated its recommendations on screen time for kids under two! The previous hard-and-fast rule of “no screens before age two” has been softened, allowing for a more balanced approach that acknowledges the realities of modern parenting.
No longer do you need to feel guilty about the occasional screen use. The new guidelines suggest that while it’s still best for children under 18 months to avoid screens, live video chats are now acceptable. So, feel free to let your little one say hi to grandma on Skype—while it may not be a substitute for in-person interaction, it does provide some connection when you can’t be together.
For toddlers aged 15 to 24 months, research shows that educational media can actually be beneficial—provided that a parent is present to engage with them. This means that if you’re sitting with your child and repeating new words they see on the screen, they can learn from it! It’s a shift from the previous idea that all screen time is harmful, as the AAP emphasizes that the key issue is the lack of interaction that often accompanies solo viewing.
So, while the AAP encourages limiting solo media use, it’s worth noting that a little screen time while you take a breather isn’t going to lead your child down a dark path. Whether you’re folding laundry or just need a moment to recharge, don’t stress too much about the occasional episode of their favorite show.
As we navigate this screen-filled world, remember that shielding young kids from all media is nearly impossible unless you live off the grid. Take these new guidelines with a grain of salt and do what feels best for your family. If a couple of episodes of a silly cartoon help you get a shower in, go for it!
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In summary, the AAP has relaxed its stance on screen time, promoting parental involvement as a key factor in making media use beneficial. Ultimately, trust your instincts as a parent and do what works for your family.