Introduction 
In today’s digital age, screens are everywhere—TVs, tablets, smartphones, laptops. While technology can offer educational and entertainment benefits, excessive screen time can impact a child's physical health, emotional well-being, and social development. The key lies in setting boundaries that work for your family while promoting healthy habits.

Understanding the Impact of Screen Time 
Children are naturally drawn to screens. Games, cartoons, and YouTube videos provide instant gratification. However, too much screen time has been linked to:

• Sleep disturbances
• Reduced physical activity
• Delayed language development
• Shortened attention span

It’s not about banning screens but about managing how, when, and what your child is watching or interacting with.

Recommended Screen Time by Age 
According to pediatric experts:

• Under 2 years: Avoid screen time, except for video chatting.
• 2–5 years: Limit to one hour per day of high-quality content.
• 6 years and older: Set consistent limits to ensure screen time doesn’t interfere with sleep, physical activity, and real-life interactions.

Signs of Unhealthy Screen Habits 
Be aware of warning signs that screen time may be affecting your child negatively:

• Frequent tantrums when devices are removed
• Lack of interest in other activities
• Mood swings after prolonged screen exposure
• Poor academic performance or social withdrawal

Strategies to Create Balance 
1. Set Clear Rules: Establish daily screen time limits and stick to them. Make rules for both weekdays and weekends. 
2. Be a Role Model: Children follow what they see. Practice healthy screen habits yourself. 
3. Create Tech-Free Zones: Designate areas like the dining table and bedrooms as no-screen zones. 
4. Prioritize Active Play: Encourage outdoor games, hobbies, and physical activities. 
5. Co-View and Discuss Content: Watch shows together and talk about them to enhance learning and bonding. 
6. Use Parental Controls: Utilize built-in controls or apps to manage content and screen usage.

Benefits of Balanced Screen Time 
When screen time is managed wisely, children can:

• Learn digital literacy skills
• Enjoy educational content
• Improve hand-eye coordination through certain games
• Develop tech skills useful for the future

The goal isn’t to eliminate screen time—it’s to make it purposeful and enriching.

Balancing screen time is an ongoing effort that requires consistency, communication, and creativity. With the right strategies, parents can help children develop a healthy relationship with technology—one that supports both learning and life beyond the screen.

Would you like a printable screen time chart or daily tech schedule for different age groups?