Screen time for babies and toddlers
The American Academy of Pediatrics' 2026 update asks families to move beyond simple screen-time limits and focus on quality, context and conversation. For little ones it says infants under 18 months learn best from real-world interactions, and that heavy solo screen use can affect developing language and social skills.
Checked October 29, 2026.
What does the AAP say about screens for under 5s?
It says outcomes depend on how many hours a day little ones spend on digital media and on how adults use screens to calm or entertain them. It lists possible harms of misuse: delays in language, thinking, social skills and fine motor development; unhealthy sleep; less time reading, moving and exploring; more angry outbursts; and less chance to develop patience and self-control.
What can families do?
- Watch and play alongside your child. The AAP calls this the best way to know what they are taking in and how they respond.
- Seek out quality content that puts kids first, such as stories that model social and emotional skills.
- Put your own phone down during meals and bedtime. Bedrooms and mealtimes are good places to start, especially the hour before bed.
- Carve out screen-free time for the whole family, and consider screen-free zones.
- Use the AAP's free Family Media Plan to set boundaries that fit your routines.
What does Peabody do about screens for babies?
Peabody Parents is for grown-ups: nothing on this site is made for a baby to watch. Its pages are for you to read and print, so you can play, talk and read off-screen.