Did you know that the average U.S. child (ages 8-18) now spends over seven hours a day on screens? That number often jumps even higher during weekends, breaks, or afterschool hours. While technology can be enriching, many parents find themselves wondering: How much screen time is too much? And more importantly, how can I help my child build healthier habits with digital devices?

As educators and caregivers, we believe that helping children build a balanced relationship with screens starts with consistent routines and clear guidance. Keep reading to discover practical, research-backed tips which can guide your child toward more meaningful offline engagement.

Why Excessive Screen Time Can Be Harmful

Technology has its roles in learning and leisure, but when screen use begins to dominate a child’s daily routine, it can interfere with their healthy development in several ways:

Cognitive Development: Studies show that excessive, unsupervised screen use with limited supervision in preschool-aged children is associated with delayed language and literacy skills. In older children, it may impact executive functioning and academic performance.
Sleep Disruption: The blue light emitted by screens can suppress melatonin production, making it harder for children to fall asleep and achieve deep, restorative rest.
Emotional and Social Wellbeing: Passive screen time (like scrolling social media and watching online videos) can contribute to anxiety, irritability, and reduced emotional regulation.
Physical Health: Sedentary screen time increases the risk of childhood obesity and can negatively affect children’s posture and eye health.

Screen Time Guidelines by Age

To help parents set realistic boundaries, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends:

Under 18 months: Avoid screen media except for necessary video calls.
18–24 months: If screens are introduced, choose high-quality content and watch alongside your child to help them understand what they are watching. For example, you can find online language learning resources recommended by our highly credentialed, native-speaking educators on our Resources pages (Spanish. Mandarin. French.)
Ages 2–5: Limit screen use to one hour per day of educational content.
Ages 6 and older: Encourage consistent limits and promote healthy tech habits.

Current statistics, however, reveal a growing gap between recommendations and reality. A 2019 survey of over 1,600 US families found that children aged 8–12 in the U.S. use 4–6 hours of recreational screen time per day, while teens average 7.5 hours, not including time spent on screens for schoolwork. Bridging that gap starts with awareness, followed by supportive, age-appropriate strategies.

What Parents Can Do to Manage Screen Time Effectively

Small, consistent shifts can gradually lead to a healthier rhythm with digital tools. Here are some thoughtful strategies for parents to consider:

1. Set Clear and Consistent Boundaries

Establish routines around screen use. Whether it’s 30 minutes after school or limited use on weekends, children respond well to structure. Many devices now also offer built-in parental controls and timers to help reinforce these habits.

At Tessa International School, our nursery and preschool classrooms are intentionally free of smart screens, encouraging children to play, explore, and learn in a healthy, interactive environment. For primary students, all written homework is done with pen and paper. Screens and tablets are used only during limited time each week for educational purposes, under teacher guidance and supervision.

Two first graders focus on their tasks at Tessa International School.

Writing by hand is a scientifically proven method to enhance students’ memory and learning.

2. Acknowledge and Guide Your Child’s Relationship with Technology

When children feel heard, they are more open to collaboration. Ask your child what they enjoy about screen time and how it makes them feel. Use this opportunity to introduce age-appropriate, inspiring content, like creative games, educational videos, or digital storytelling. Watching or playing alongside your child can also build your connections.

3. Create a Healthy Family Environment

Children tend to reflect what they see. If parents check emails during meals or scroll during conversations, kids are likely to adopt the same habits. Set the tone by creating screen-free zones (like bedrooms or the dinner table) and screen-free times (such as during family meals or before bedtime). When the whole family embraces these habits, children are more likely to internalize them.

4. Encourage Offline Interests

Sometimes, the easiest way to reduce screen time is to offer something better. Keep a rotating collection of books, board games, art supplies, or outdoor equipment easily accessible. Let children take the lead and exercise their agency. By creating a home environment rich in hands-on activities, they can spend their free time meaningfully without relying on screens.

5. Explore Enrichment Programs

If you’re looking for offline experiences that go even further, high-quality enrichment programs can offer children engaging, hands-on learning in a screen-limited setting.

At Tessa International School, our rich auxiliary programs, including afterschool activities across STEM, sports, music, and the arts, open-to-public language classes, as well as summer camp programs, allow children to explore new interests and develop social-emotional skills. These thoughtfully-designed experiences help children unplug with purpose in a safe, engaging environment while supporting working parents to coordinate their busy schedules.

Limiting screen time doesn’t mean avoiding technology altogether. It helps children use it in ways that support their development rather than distract from it. Finding that balance may take time. Start where you are; make one small change; work together with your child’s teachers and the School whenever you need help. With each effort, we are supporting our children into responsible, independent individuals.

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