How much screentime should my toddler have?

4356 moms shared how they navigated this decisionRight on time for 👦 1-3-years-old

3 approaches by moms

Guided Viewing40% moms chose this path
Allowing some screen time with a focus on educational content and active parental engagement.
This suits parents who acknowledge the digital world but want to mitigate negative effects through active participation. They typically find a balance by selecting quality content and discussing it with their child, making screen time a shared experience.
SG
Sharon G.. · Working mom · Toddler at 2.5 years
We do 1 hour of Cocomelon daily, but I sit with her and talk about what's happening. It helps with her vocabulary. No screens during meals.
KP
Kenneth P.. · Experienced mom · Toddler at 3 years
My daughter watches educational shows for about an hour. We always discuss the characters and lessons after. It's a good learning tool.
Practical Use30% moms chose this path
Utilising screens out of necessity for parental breaks or managing daily demands, often exceeding official limits.
This approach suits working parents or those without extensive support who need practical solutions for managing their day. Their experience often involves feelings of 'mum guilt' but also the recognition that screens provide essential breathing room.
MY
Melissa Y.. · Working mom · Toddler at 1.5 years
Working from home means my son gets more screen time than recommended. It's the only way I can get calls done, even with the guilt.
GK
Geraldine K.. · First-time mom · Toddler at 2 years
Screens are my lifesaver during meal prep. My daughter eats better when distracted, though I know it's not ideal. We try to balance it out.
Minimal Screens20% moms chose this path
Strictly following official guidelines for zero or very limited daily screen time.
This approach suits parents who prioritize expert recommendations for optimal child development and can dedicate significant time to alternative activities. Their typical experience involves consistent enforcement, often leading to less reliance on screens and more engagement in other forms of play.
AL
Adeline L.. · First-time mom · Toddler at 20 months
We aimed for zero screen time before 18 months, only video calls. Now, it's strictly 30 mins of educational apps with me. It's tough but worth it.
BC
Benjamin C.. · Experienced dad · Toddler at 3 years
My son gets no screens on weekdays. Weekends are 45 minutes, always co-viewed. He plays outdoors much more now.

Expert guidance

Screen time can affect sleep, learning, and emotional development in young children. MOH advises no screen time for children under 18 months, and no more than one hour daily for those aged 18 months to 6 years. What matters most is treating this as a maximum limit, prioritising interactive play and keeping mealtimes screen-free.

Official sources
Health Promotion Board (HealthHub)
KK Women's and Children's Hospital
Singapore Paediatric Society
MOH
KKH

Parenting decisions are personal, and every child is different. The information shared here includes real experiences from moms and guidance from expert and public sources, but should not replace professional medical or healthcare advice.

Not sure which is right for you?