How much time can a child spend in front of a gadget or TV screen: depends on age - a note for parents

03.07.2024 03:30

Parents have different attitudes towards their children's ability to use certain devices.

Some mothers and fathers are sure that a smartphone, tablet, computer, and TV only harm a child, so the baby needs to be completely protected from danger.

Other parents have no doubt that such devices are extremely beneficial: the child gains knowledge, watches interesting educational films, etc.

Let us emphasize right away: it is better to find a golden mean. You should not completely deprive a small child of the opportunity to use gadgets. At the same time, certain restrictions are needed.

So, the baby should not spend too much time in front of the screen.

child
Photo: © Belnovosti

How many minutes or hours a day can a child use a smartphone or sit in front of a TV/computer? It depends on the age of the child.

Up to 1 year

If a child is under one year old, he should not be given a smartphone at all.

Even if the baby is very attracted to this “toy”.

1-2 years

Parents can show their one- or two-year-old child certain educational videos.

The maximum duration of such classes is 15 minutes per day.

At the same time, keep an eye on the video sequence: the change of frames should not be too fast, and excessive brightness is also not necessary.

3-6 years

At this age, a child can spend a maximum of 60 minutes a day in front of a screen.

Of course, you shouldn't leave your child alone with a gadget or TV. Parents should be nearby.

Over 6 years old

When the child becomes a schoolchild, it will most likely not be possible to set strict restrictions: the child will probably have to use the smartphone often for studying.

And the child will also need to rest: he will want to watch cartoons or music videos.

However, parents should still introduce a certain rule: for example, there should be rooms in the apartment where smartphone use is prohibited: for example, the kitchen, dining room, bedroom. It is also necessary to plan many periods free from mobile devices.

Earlier, parents were told what games they could play with children of different ages.

Author: Kurchev Anton Deputy Editor-in-Chief

Content
  1. Up to 1 year
  2. 1-2 years
  3. 3-6 years
  4. Over 6 years old