Kids Screen Time Calculator
Find the recommended daily screen time limit for your child based on AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) guidelines by age.
Recommended Screen Time
Screen time recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) are based on a child"s age and developmental needs.
AAP Guidelines:
| Age | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Under 18 months | Avoid screen media (except video chatting) |
| 18–24 months | Limited, high-quality programming with parent co-viewing |
| 2–5 years | 1 hour/day of high-quality programming |
| 6–12 years | Consistent limits; prioritize sleep, physical activity |
| 13–18 years | Balanced approach; ensure it doesn"t replace sleep or exercise |
Key principles:
- No screens during meals or 1 hour before bedtime
- Prioritize: Sleep (8–12 hours), physical activity (60 min/day), homework
- Co-view with younger children to help them understand content
- Media-free zones: Bedrooms, dining table
- Quality over quantity: Educational content over passive entertainment
Daily time budget for children:
- Sleep: 9–12 hours (ages 6–12), 8–10 hours (teens)
- School: 6–7 hours
- Physical activity: 60+ minutes
- Homework: 1–3 hours
- Free time (including screen): remaining hours
Signs of too much screen time:
- Sleep problems
- Declining grades
- Reduced physical activity
- Behavioral changes
- Eye strain or headaches