How much time should children be allowed to watch tv

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Accepted Answer

The amount of time children should be allowed to watch TV varies by age and the type of content being viewed. Here are some general guidelines recommended by experts:

### Guidelines for Screen Time:

1. **Children Under 18 Months**:
   - **Avoid Screen Time**: Except for video chatting, children under 18 months should have minimal to no screen time.

2. **Children 18-24 Months**:
   - **Limited and High-Quality**: If parents choose to introduce digital media, it should be high-quality programming, and parents should watch it with their children to help them understand what they're seeing.

3. **Children 2-5 Years**:
   - **1 Hour Per Day**: Limit screen time to no more than one hour per day of high-quality programming. Co-viewing is encouraged to help children understand and apply what they see.

4. **Children 6 Years and Older**:
   - **Consistent Limits**: Set consistent limits on screen time to ensure it does not interfere with sleep, physical activity, and other behaviors essential to health. Balance screen time with other healthy activities.

### Tips for Managing Screen Time:
- **Create a Family Media Plan**: Set clear rules about screen time, including what types of media are allowed, when, and for how long.
- **Encourage Active Play**: Ensure that children get plenty of physical activity and time for unstructured play.
- **Monitor Content**: Choose educational and age-appropriate content. Avoid violent or inappropriate material.
- **Model Healthy Habits**: Demonstrate good screen habits by limiting your own screen time and engaging in other activities.
- **Screen-Free Zones**: Establish screen-free zones in the home, such as during meals and in bedrooms.
- **Engage in Co-Viewing**: Watch TV or play video games with your children to understand what they are viewing and to provide context and guidance.

### Importance of Balance:
Balancing screen time with other activities like outdoor play, reading, and family interactions is crucial for the overall development and well-being of children. Too much screen time can impact sleep, physical health, and social skills.

By setting and adhering to these guidelines, parents can help ensure that their children have a healthy relationship with screen time.