The clearest guidance comes from the World Health Organisation and the American Academy of Pediatrics. For children under 18 months, screen use should be avoided entirely, with the exception of video-chatting with family members. The reason is straightforward: at this age, babies learn through physical interaction with people and their environment. Screen-based content does not support this process, and may actually displace the real-world interactions that matter most.

For children aged 18 months to 2 years, limited, high-quality content can be introduced — but only if a parent watches and interacts alongside the child, helping them connect what they see on screen to the real world. Passive solo screen time at this age provides little benefit.

For children aged 2 to 5, the guidelines suggest no more than one hour per day of high-quality, age-appropriate content. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to co-view when possible, asking questions and making connections: “Oh look, they’re counting — can you count with them?”

For children aged 5 and above, there are no fixed hour limits in the latest guidance, but quality, context, and balance with other activities matter enormously. Screen time that crowds out physical play, sleep, reading, face-to-face conversation, and outdoor time is always a concern, regardless of the content.