Screen Time Guidelines for Young Children in Australia

Understanding Australian Screen Time Guidelines

The Australian Department of Health provides clear recommendations for screen time based on age. These guidelines are developed in consultation with paediatricians, child development experts, and health researchers to support optimal physical, cognitive, and social development in young children.

For children under two years, the recommendation is no screen time at all, except for video calling with family and friends. This may seem strict, but research consistently shows that very young children learn best through face-to-face interactions, hands-on play, and real-world experiences. Their developing brains are not equipped to learn effectively from screens, and excessive early screen exposure has been linked to language delays and attention difficulties.

For children aged two to five years, the guideline is no more than one hour per day of sedentary screen time. This includes television, tablets, computers, and smartphones. However, quality matters just as much as quantity—educational, interactive content is preferable to passive viewing.

Why Screen Time Limits Matter

You might wonder why health authorities are so concerned about screen time for young children. The evidence points to several key reasons that make these guidelines worth following.

First, excessive screen time displaces other essential activities. Every hour spent watching a screen is an hour not spent running, climbing, building, drawing, or engaging in imaginative play. These hands-on activities are crucial for developing motor skills, creativity, problem-solving abilities, and social competence. Young children learn by doing, and screens create a passive experience that limits active learning.

Second, screen time affects sleep quality. The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder for children to fall asleep. Additionally, stimulating content can leave children wired and alert when they should be winding down. Poor sleep in early childhood is associated with behavioural problems, difficulty concentrating, and developmental delays.

Third, language development requires human interaction. Young children learn language through back-and-forth conversations, reading together, and responsive communication with caregivers. Screen time, even educational programming, cannot replicate this interactive learning experience. Studies show that children who have excessive screen time in early childhood may have smaller vocabularies and weaker language skills.

Making Screen Time Count: Quality Over Quantity

When you do allow screen time for children over two, focus on making it as valuable as possible. Not all screen time is created equal, and choosing the right content and approach can turn passive viewing into a more enriching experience.

Look for educational content specifically designed for your child's age group. Australian programs like Play School have been thoughtfully created to support early learning through songs, stories, and age-appropriate concepts. Interactive apps that encourage problem-solving, creativity, or early literacy skills are generally better choices than passive video content.

Watch together whenever possible. Co-viewing transforms screen time from a solitary activity into a shared experience. You can pause to discuss what's happening, ask questions, relate the content to your child's life, and extend the learning beyond the screen. This interactive approach helps children process and retain what they're watching.

Avoid using screens as background noise. Having the television on constantly, even if no one is actively watching, can affect children's attention spans and interfere with parent-child interactions. Be intentional about when screens are on and off in your home.

Practical Strategies for Managing Screen Time

Implementing screen time limits can be challenging, especially when screens are so readily available and effective at capturing children's attention. Here are practical strategies that Australian families have found helpful.

Establish clear rules and routines around screen time. Children thrive with consistent expectations. You might designate certain times of day for screens, such as a short program after lunch, while keeping mornings and pre-bedtime screen-free. Having predictable rules reduces negotiations and tantrums about when screens are available.

Create a media plan for your family. Sit down with your partner and discuss your values and goals around technology use. Consider how screens fit into your overall family lifestyle and what limits make sense for your situation. Having a plan helps you make consistent decisions rather than reacting in the moment.

Prepare alternative activities. When you turn off the screen, have engaging alternatives ready. Visit our activities page for age-appropriate ideas like sensory play, craft projects, outdoor exploration, and imaginative play that capture children's interest without screens.

Model healthy screen habits yourself. Children learn by watching their parents. If you're constantly on your phone or watching television, your children will want to do the same. Try to have device-free times as a family, such as during meals and before bedtime.

Handling Screen Time Challenges

Even with the best intentions, managing screen time isn't always smooth sailing. Many Australian parents face common challenges that require patience and consistency to overcome.

Tantrums when screens are turned off are extremely common, especially for toddlers who struggle with transitions. Give warnings before screen time ends ("Five more minutes, then we're turning off the iPad"), and have a transition activity ready ("After the show, we'll go outside to look for butterflies"). Over time, children learn to accept these boundaries.

Pressure from peers or relatives can also be challenging. You might feel judged for limiting screens or pressured to allow more. Remember that you know your child and family best, and it's okay to set boundaries that differ from others. You can explain your approach simply: "We're following the health guidelines for young children."

Long car trips, waiting rooms, and other challenging situations tempt many parents to rely on screens. While occasional use in these circumstances is understandable, try to have non-screen alternatives available too—books, travel games, drawing supplies, or audio stories can occupy children without screens.

Building Healthy Digital Habits for the Future

The habits you establish in early childhood create a foundation for your child's relationship with technology throughout life. By setting thoughtful limits now, you're helping your child develop self-regulation skills and a balanced approach to screens.

Teach your child that screens are one of many ways to learn, be entertained, and connect with others—not the only or primary way. Emphasise the value of outdoor play, face-to-face friendships, reading physical books, and creative pursuits. Children who develop diverse interests are less likely to become overly dependent on screens as they grow older.

As your child gets older, involve them in decisions about screen time. Discuss why limits exist and help them understand the importance of balance. This approach builds their own awareness and decision-making skills rather than relying solely on parental enforcement.

Resources for Australian Families

For more detailed guidance on screen time and young children, the Australian Department of Health's Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines provide comprehensive recommendations. The Raising Children Network also offers practical tips and age-specific advice for Australian families navigating technology use.

Remember, the goal isn't to eliminate screens entirely but to ensure they don't dominate your child's early years. By being thoughtful and intentional about screen time, you can embrace technology's benefits while protecting the experiences that matter most for your child's development—play, exploration, relationships, and hands-on learning.

For more ideas on engaging your child without screens, explore our parenting resources and discover activities that support development at every age.