Pedemy All toolsTap your child’s age to see the AAP’s advice on screens and media.
This tool shows what the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends about screens and media for babies, toddlers, school-age children and teens.
In 2026 the AAP moved away from simple screen-time limits and now focuses on quality, context and conversation. For babies under 18 months, video chats are fine but cartoons and nursery-rhyme videos are not recommended. For young children, choose high-quality shows, watch together, keep YouTube to a minimum and avoid open access to tablets or phones.
For every age, the AAP suggests a family media plan, screen-free bedrooms and mealtimes, no screens in the hour before bed, and the 5 C’s: Child, Content, Calm, Crowding out and Communication.
The 2026 AAP guidance does not set an hour limit. It recommends high-quality shows watched together, minimal YouTube with autoplay off, screens at set times, and no open access to tablets or phones.
For babies under 18 months, video chats with family can be good, but cartoons and nursery-rhyme videos are not recommended. Avoid long TV or YouTube viewing.
Child, Content, Calm, Crowding out and Communication: think about your child, choose good content, help them calm down without screens, protect sleep and play, and talk about media together.
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