Screen time and social media: children under 5 | Progyny

Reviewed by Dr. Jennifer Trachtenberg — June 2025.

Screens are part of everyday life. Many parents rely on them for work, communication, and even occasional moments of peace. But when it comes to young children under 5, it’s important to think carefully about how and when screens are used.

At this age, children are developing rapidly. They learn best through real-life play, conversation, and interaction with caregivers — not from screens. While some screen time can be okay, setting healthy limits early helps support your child’s development now and in the long run.

What the experts say

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends:

• No screen time other than video chatting for babies under 18 months.
• Limited, high-quality screen time for toddlers 18 to 24 months with an adult present.
• No more than one hour per day of high-quality programming for kids ages 2 to 5, ideally watched with a caregiver.

This doesn’t include video calls with family, which can support language and social development. The focus from AAP is really on passive screen time, like TV shows, YouTube, and apps.

Why limits matter

Their brains are still wiring connections for language, focus, empathy, and self-regulation. Too much screen time can make it harder for young kids to handle boredom or strong emotions, especially if screens become a go-to soothing tool. Other important skills suffer too:

• Building blocks, pretend games, and outdoor exploration support creativity and problem-solving.
• Face-to-face interaction is how kids learn body language, tone, and turn-taking.
• Screens before bed can disrupt melatonin production and make it harder for kids to wind down and sleep well.

What about social media?

Most social media platforms have a minimum age of 13, and for good reason. They’re not designed for young children and can expose them to material they’re not ready to process. Even if your child isn’t using these apps directly, they may ask questions about what they see adults doing. That’s why it helps to model healthy screen behavior and talk about what different screens are used for.

Also, think carefully before posting photos or videos of your child online. Posting less allows children to have more control over their own online presence when they’re ready. It teaches them that their image and identity matter, and that it’s okay to set boundaries around what gets shared.

It’s for their safety, too. Public photos can be accessed and misused in ways parents don’t intend. For example, images can be copied, altered, or reposted by strangers. Photos could also include details like names, locations, or school uniforms that can expose them to risks.

Tips for building healthy habits

Here are a few ways to support your child’s relationship with screens:

• Use screen time as a chance to connect. Talk about what’s happening and relate it to their real-life experiences.
• Look for shows and apps that are slow-paced, educational, and designed for young learners.
• Keep mealtimes and bedrooms tech-free to encourage better sleep and family connection.
• Kids learn from what they see. Try to limit your own screen use during family time.
• Think of screens as just one small part of your child’s day, not the main event.

The bottom line

There’s no need to feel guilty for using a screen now and then — it’s part of modern parenting. What matters most is being intentional about how screens are used, and making sure they don’t replace the rich, real-world experiences that kids under 5 need most.

With a little planning and plenty of play, you can help your child build a healthy relationship with screens.

If you have questions, Progyny is here for you. Please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support.

Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.