Screen Time and Online Safety

The internet is a big part of all our lives. Parents and carers play a vital role in keeping children safe online and in helping them build healthy screen habits which starts right from the Early Years.

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In our modern world, screens are just about everywhere, from the supermarket to the library and of course within the palm of our hands. But how much screen time is recommended for our youngest children?

The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that there should be no screens for under 2’s and children aged 2 to 4 years old should have no more than one hour a day.

Screen use can lead to children missing out on exciting first hand experiences like going to the shops or a trip to the park and over time can impact on their learning, social and emotional growth and can lead to potential delays in language, attention issues, poor sleep, increased risk of obesity, and challenges with behaviour and social skills like empathy.

👉 Click here for more information on how much screen time is okay for your little one and the possible impacts overuse of screens can have .

To help you as a parent with supporting your child’s use of screens, here is some advice and top tips which can be put into place even before your little one arrives.

  • Delay introducing digital devices e.g. television, tablets, smart phones for as long as possible.
  • Limit screen time in line with guidance from the World Health Organisation (WHO).
  • Have screen free areas for example at the dining table, in the car and in the pushchair as these are all great opportunities to chat and for children to learn something new!
  • Encourage bedtime reading and avoid screens in the 2 hours before bed.
  • Prioritise play as this is the best way to help your child learn. LINK TO PLAY & LEARNING
  • Don’t use the device to calm your child down. This is sometimes referred to as a digital dummy. Instead try distracting them with a game or a book.
  • Avoid using the screen as a punishment or a reward, as this is not healthy and becomes an expectation.
  • Avoid using a screen instead of an adult, for example to read stories or sing songs as nothing beats seeing your facial expressions, hearing your voice and having fun together.
  • Avoid having screens on in the background, as this affects children’s concentration and play and can easily distract the child (and adult!)
  • Encourage children to socialise with others. If there is a choice between playing with a tablet or with another child or adult, 9 times out of 10 children will opt for the latter.
  • Avoid short term content. This is content that comes and goes very quickly like TikTok videos. This can impact on children’s attention span and their social and emotional development.
  • Adults can get distracted by technology too. Remember your little one is always watching and copying you, so try to limit your screen use when they are about.
  • When using a screen:
  • Use a big screen as this is better for children’s developing eyesight.
  • Watch the screen together
  • Make sure what your child is watching is age appropriateg. CBeebies
  • Keep the screen where you can see it
  • Think about how and where you are sitting and try to avoid slouching as this can affect posture.

👉 Click here for more information on the use of screens with early years children.

Your little one may only just be beginning to use a screen and when they do, you will usually be present, but it is still important to remember about keeping them safe online.

Having a conversation about online safety can begin as soon as your child is engaging with technology.

👉 Click here for more information on online safety.