Guidelines on screen time for babies
Did you know? Too much screen time can keep your baby from being active and playing, and may interfere with her sleep.
Some parents believe watching screens can be educational, while others use screens for entertainment or as electronic babysitters. However, media usage keeps babies from being active and playing. It may also interfere with your baby’s sleep.
What are the guidelines?
Health departments in the US, Canada, and Australia all recommend limited or no television for children under two years of age. Surprisingly, research suggests that parents may not be aware of these recommendations. In one particular study:
- 90% of parents mistakenly allowed their children under two to watch television or use other electronic devices
- some of these children were watching screens for two hours or longer every day
- 40% of three-month-olds were regularly watching videos or television
Simple, active play is far more beneficial than screen time for your baby, from her very first days and weeks. You don’t need expensive toys or equipment to encourage your baby to be active. Make time for brief periods of play and interaction with your baby each day.
Sources
Cespedes EM, Gillman MW, Kleinman K et al. Television viewing, bedroom television, and sleep duration from infancy to mid-childhood. Pediatrics 2014; 133(5):e1163-71.
Vaala S, Hornik R. Predicting US infants’ and toddlers’ TV/video viewing rates: Mothers’ cognitions and structural life circumstances. J Child Media 2014; 8(2):163-82.
Zimmerman FJ, Christakis DA, Meltzoff AN. Television and DVD/video viewing in children younger than 2 years. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med 2007; 161(5):473-9.
Related articles
Preventing Baby Food Allergy
In Singapore, babies with no family history of allergy can still have up to 15% chance of getting an allergy.
4 mins to read
How to read baby sign language
From the moment they’re born, your baby has a lot to say.
2 mins to read
Is Baby Food Safe? - Read on to Learn More
Did you know? In many countries, pre-packaged baby food has to meet strict safety standards.
2 mins to read
Bathing baby & toilet training
Unsure about bath time? Here is a step by step guide to baby hygiene to keep your baby clean while bonding.
3 mins to read
Dad In The Labour Ward
The birth is not only a trial for us, but also for the future father! It is a veritable marathon for those who are present in the labour ward to attend the births of their babies.
3 mins to read
Having a healthy breastfeeding diet is important for your baby
Did you know? It is important that you eat a healthy diet while breastfeeding and drink plenty of water and other fluids to help with milk production.
2 mins to read
Physical Activities for Babies – What you need to know
Did you know? Spending time playing with your baby at this age can lead to him being more active when he’s a toddler.
3 mins to read
Decorations And Activities
Not sure of what to do for your child's birthday? Here are some ideas for games and decorations. Why not get your toddler involved and help you make a few decorations?
2 mins to read
How to give baby massage
Baby massages are great for getting baby ready for bed and soothing tummy troubles. Find out what to do with this baby tummy massage breakdown.
2 mins to read
When can babies eat eggs, wheat or nuts
Did you know? Guidelines have changed for when to introduce your baby to eggs, wheat, fish, and foods containing peanuts.
3 mins to read
How Long Do Babies Sleep
Put your knowledge of sleep for babies to the test with this quickfire quiz. Make a note of your answers as you go, then check how many you got right at the end.
4 mins to read
Your Baby's Physical Development
If you think your baby has it easy for the first few months, think again. Each month or even each day, brings new skills and progress.
4 mins to read
Planet-saving tips for an eco-friendly baby
Saving the planet doesn’t have to stop because you’ve had a baby. Yes, they’re a teeny bundle of mess-creating, gadget-needing joy.
2 mins to read
Why is screen time bad for babies?
Did you know? Even at a very young age, screen time can have an impact on activity levels and sleep.
3 mins to read
Folic Acid for pregnancy
To avoid any deficiencies, you need to eat a varied and balanced diet before even falling pregnant. Opt for food types rich in folic acid.
3 mins to read
Don't Forget Carbohydrates!
Carbohydrates provide only 4 calories per 100g, much less than fat, and should represent more than half of your total daily intake.
3 mins to read
5 activities that help with your baby’s development
Ideas for fitting new and fun games into your baby’s routine.
3 mins to read
Activities for 10 Month Old – Here’s some great ones
You may have noticed your baby is moving more and more every day—it may sometimes feel like he’s in constant motion!
4 mins to read
How much food to feed your baby at 9-11 months
With a little knowledge and observation, you will easily be able to identify
2 mins to read
