We live in an era where the virtual takes an increasingly important place. At home, from an early age, children are surrounded by screens: television, tablet, smartphone, game console, computer… Faced with the multiplication of alarming studies on the impact of screens on the psychomotor and intellectual development of children, some parents feel disoriented, but it is useless to panic or feel guilty. Parents must be alert to better accompany their children and help them control the use of screens without going overboard, by monitoring the content of the programs broadcast and screen time (the time the child spends in front of a screen).
Here are recommendations from several European campaigns for a better use of screens in family.
From 0 to 3 years: zero screen
The rule is clear: before 3 years old, no screen is allowed. This is the age when the child wakes up and develops its 5 senses, to touch, taste, hear, see and smell. In front of a screen, his experiences will be reduced and passive.
From 3 to 6 years old: 20 minutes of interactive screen, 30 minutes of TV, the game console remains forbidden
Around 3 years, we can start to introduce interactive screens (smartphone and tablet) in the company of an adult and for learning programs that stimulate memory, help learn the alphabet, recognize shapes, animals … Make sure that the sessions do not exceed 20 minutes to neither create a state of dependence.
After the age of 3, television can also be introduced, but in moderation. The child should not be left alone in front of a television on in the room, even if he/she does not seem to be watching it, because the constant background noise of the television interferes with the child’s learning and prevents him/her from concentrating. Between the ages of 3 and 5, children can be allowed to watch up to one hour of television per day (in 20-minute sessions). During these sessions, stay with your child to answer questions or simply discuss what he or she is watching. This way, watching TV becomes an interactive (not passive) activity.
Ages 6-9: 30-60 minutes of interactive screen time and 1 hour of TV
Certain games and programs are of interest at this age because they help develop creativity and the ability to concentrate, react or make quick decisions. Help your child choose apps that encourage thinking and active play rather than passive activities. Encourage ad-free apps and implement parental controls. At this age, it is important to discuss with your child what he or she sees on the screen (violence, information, advertising, etc.) and to reassure him or her.
From 9 to 12 years old: video games are allowed and the first steps on the Internet too!
From the age of 9, we start to introduce the child to the Internet, by accompanying him during his browsing (30-minute sessions to start with). These moments will be the occasion to explain to him the way to use Internet in full safety. At this age, the child can watch television for a maximum of 2 hours.
Screens and computers should remain in the living room, under the parents’ supervision, and games should be set up and limited in time. Install parental control software, talk to your child and explain that the Internet is in the public domain and that certain data must always be checked for accuracy.
After the age of 12: your child is “free to surf” and can access all screens independently
Limit their connection times. Do not allow your child to have unlimited night-time access in his room. At this age, even if they are autonomous, you can discuss with them and warn them about the dangers that lurk on the Web (illegal downloading, false information, plagiarism, pornography, harassment…).
To help limit your children’s screen time:
Set an example: reduce your screen time and diversify your activities (sports, reading…). Your children will follow you by mimicry.
Be firm and apply the rules, without compromising. Don’t hesitate to punish them if they exceed the rules (it’s for the good of your child).
Set a time to watch TV (e.g. after nap time or after school).
Don’t allow TV during meals, before going to sleep, when waking up in the morning and don’t leave screens in their rooms.
Encourage your children to participate in sports, play outdoors and make time to share their games and hobbies.
Make the most of the time spent together as a family, over a meal or on a family outing. These precious moments should not be interfered with by a TV screen or smartphones!
It is not possible to imagine a life without screens or connected devices for a child today, but it is necessary from the first years to set limits on screen time and to supervise the child by giving him the right example.
