In today’s world, screens are everywhere — from phones and tablets to smart TVs and even toys. For parents of young children, the question isn’t just “Should I let my child use screens?” but rather “How can I use technology wisely to support their growth?”
At Star A Brilliance Early Learning Center, we believe in helping families find balance. This guide will help you understand what the experts recommend, why screen time matters in early childhood, and how to create a healthy relationship with technology at home.
Why Screen Time Matters
Young children’s brains grow rapidly in the first few years of life. During this period, real-world play, touch, and communication shape learning far more effectively than digital stimulation. Too much screen time can replace crucial developmental activities like play, conversation, and discovery.
Research shows that excessive screen time in early childhood can lead to delays in speech, social skills, and sleep patterns (National Institutes of Health). Another study from BMC Public Health found that children who spent more than an hour per day on screens showed weaker language and communication skills.
That said, not all screen time is harmful. Content quality, parental involvement, and timing play huge roles in determining its effects (Frontiers in Developmental Psychology).
Expert Guidelines for Healthy Screen Use
Experts agree that you don’t have to ban screens, but you do need to guide and limit their use.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics:
- Under 18 months: Avoid screen media except for video chatting.
- Ages 2–5 years: Limit to about one hour per day of high-quality, educational content.
- All ages: Focus on what children watch, when they watch, and who they watch with.
The Mayo Clinic recommends setting clear rules, like tech-free meals and no screens before bed. You can find similar suggestions from CHOC Children’s Hospital, which notes that co-viewing — watching alongside your child — makes a major difference.
At Star A Brilliance, our Infant, Toddler, and Preschool Programs focus on real-world learning, communication, and sensory exploration — the very skills excessive screens can hinder.
Screen Time by Age
Infants (0–2 Years)
Babies learn best from human interaction — through talking, singing, and sensory play. Screens should be avoided, except for short video chats with loved ones. The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes that no app or video can replace eye contact and bonding.
Instead of digital entertainment, explore real experiences like our Baby Social Program, where infants engage with gentle music, movement, and sensory play under the care of nurturing teachers.
Toddlers & Preschoolers (2–5 Years)
At this stage, children are building language and imagination. Limited, high-quality educational content — viewed together — can help reinforce lessons. Avoid screens before bedtime since they interfere with sleep (OSF HealthCare).
Try pairing short learning videos with real activities. For example, if your child watches a nature video, follow it with outdoor exploration or art inspired by what they saw. Our STEM and Creative Arts programs follow this “learn by doing” model.
Early School Age (5+ Years)
Older children often use screens for homework, games, and social interaction. Keep emphasizing balance and content quality. The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends designating “media-free zones” and regularly discussing what your child watches.
Practical Tips for Parents
- Create a Family Media Plan: Write down daily limits and device-free zones. The AAP’s Media Use Plan tool is a great place to start.
- Choose Interactive, Educational Content: Pick shows or apps that encourage participation — singing, counting, or problem-solving.
- Model Healthy Habits: Kids mimic adults. Be mindful of your own phone use during playtime.
- Avoid Screens Before Bed: Blue light delays sleep. Replace screens with bedtime stories or soft music.
- Offer Screen-Free Alternatives: Encourage art, building, and pretend play. If you need inspiration, check out our Summer Program for activity ideas that combine learning and fun.
- Get Support: If you’re unsure how to manage digital habits, talk to your child’s teacher or visit our Contact Page — we love helping families find balance.
When Technology Can Be Helpful
Used wisely, technology can support connection and learning. Video calls with grandparents, interactive story apps, or music games can all have value when guided by an adult.
The American Heart Association suggests balancing screen activities with daily movement.
At Stellar Academics, our partner school for advanced enrichment, we also integrate age-appropriate digital learning tools that encourage creativity, not passivity.
Common Challenges and Real-Life Solutions
- “My child always wants the tablet.”
Set clear expectations and use visual timers for transitions. Offer engaging hands-on activities instead. - “I rely on screens when I’m busy.”
Try background music, audiobooks, or sensory bins to keep your child entertained without screens. - “My older child uses the computer for homework — how do I separate that from play?”
Use designated spaces for study vs. play and define “learning time” vs. “screen leisure.” - “Other families allow more screen time.”
Every family is different. Focus on your values and what supports your child’s development best.
Building a Healthy Family Routine
- Audit Your Week: Note how often screens appear and identify natural times to pause.
- Set Tech-Free Zones: Bedrooms, meal areas, and car rides are great places to start.
- Create a Balanced Routine: Include outdoor time, reading, music, and play every day.
- Stay Consistent: Children thrive on clear boundaries and predictable routines.
- Connect With Your School: Partner with your child’s educators to align home and classroom screen guidelines.
Our Programs emphasize holistic growth — physical, emotional, and intellectual — so that learning continues beyond the screen.
