Screen Time
Screen Time
The American College of Pediatricians (ACPeds) affirms limiting screen time due to the negative effect of excessive screen time and early use of screen time on the health of children and adolescents. All forms of media, especially visual media, play an increasing role in the lives of children, adolescents, and families in the United States. While very limited use of high-quality and developmentally appropriate media under adult supervision may have a positive influence after two years of age, excessive or developmentally inappropriate use carries grave health risks. Excessive exposure to screens (television, tablets, smartphones, computers, and video game consoles), especially at young ages, is associated with lower academic performance, sleep disturbances, obesity, attention deficit disorder, increased aggression, lower self-esteem, depression, and increased rates of high-risk behaviors. ACPeds encourages parents to become media literate and limit screen time for their children, and to set a positive example by limiting screen time for themselves, which will also contribute to fostering healthy relationships with their children.
Approved by the ACPeds Board of Directors (May 2025)
Approved by ACPeds Members (June 2025)
Corresponding ACPeds Referenced Paper:
Media Use and Screen Time – Its Impact on Children, Adolescents, and Families (May 2020)
Other Pertinent ACPeds Referenced Papers:
