How many devices do you have at home currently? Perhaps a TV, laptop, maybe a tablet or e-reader. Of course, our phones have become a ubiquitous tool for daily life as well.

Just as our children copy our words, actions, and mannerisms, so too can they pick up on our screen time habits. This is certainly an important topic for parents today, as technology like phones and computers are becoming more integral to our lifestyle.

That’s why we found these new media guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics so interesting. How and when you use screens in your household is different for every family, but these recommendations can be a good jumping off point.

“The AAP recommends parents prioritize creative, unplugged playtime for infants and toddlers. Some media can have educational value for children starting at around 18 months of age, but it’s critically important that this be high-quality programming, such as the content offered by Sesame Workshop and PBS. Parents of young children should watch media with their child, to help children understand what they are seeing.”

How do you regulate media and screen time in your family? Share your advice with the Guidepost Parent community in Chat.

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