How much screen time is actually okay

2w ago·1 min read

My 6 year old wants an iPad like his friends at school and I'm conflicted. My wife thinks 30 minutes a day is fine, I'm worried he'll just want more and more. I grew up with none of this and turned out fine but I also know times are different now. There are actual educational apps out there. But is that just what we tell ourselves? What are you guys doing with your kids this age?

3 comments112 views

Comments(3)

MMarcus T.New Dad2w ago

Marcus here - I went through the exact same thing with my two. We set a hard limit at 30 minutes but made it educational apps only, no free-for-all stuff. He still asks for more but at least we have a clear rule to point to instead of negotiating every day.

DDerrick T.New Dad2w ago

Your wife's 30 minutes is actually pretty reasonable - I was worried mine would turn into a zombie too but honestly if it's structured time it hasn't been the slippery slope I feared. The key is being consistent so he knows that's the boundary.

NNathanNew Dad2w ago

Four kids here in San Antonio and I've learned the hard way that saying yes with firm limits beats saying no and having them sneak screens anyway. Maybe let him earn iPad time with outdoor stuff or chores so it feels like a privilege?