Essential Screen Time Guidelines for Children by Pediatric Expert

In an age dominated by technology, understanding appropriate screen time for children is crucial. Pediatrician Dr. Ravi Malik shares valuable insights on how much screen exposure is suitable for different age groups. From infants to teenagers, he emphasizes the importance of interaction, quality content, and setting boundaries. Parents are encouraged to create screen-free zones and engage in activities that promote healthy development. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Dr. Malik's recommendations, ensuring that children can thrive in a balanced environment. Read on to learn more about fostering healthy screen habits for your kids.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 22, 2025, 11:30 IST

Understanding Screen Time for Kids

Parenting Insights: In today's digital age, devices like smartphones, tablets, and televisions have become integral to children's daily routines. Busy parents often resort to giving these gadgets to their kids. But is this practice beneficial? Dr. Ravi Malik, a well-known pediatrician, recently shared insights on his Instagram regarding this matter. He outlines the recommended screen time for children based on their age. Here’s what he suggests:

Infants to 2 Years
Dr. Malik emphasizes that children from birth to two years should not be exposed to screens at all. During this critical developmental stage, interaction with parents, observing expressions, and engaging in play are vital for their growth. Screen time can hinder brain development, language acquisition, and emotional growth. Therefore, it’s crucial to encourage activities that involve direct interaction and exploration of their surroundings.

2 to 5 Years
For children aged two to five, screen time should be limited to a maximum of one hour daily, and only if the content is educational and age-appropriate. Parents are encouraged to co-view content with their children and discuss what they are watching to enhance understanding.

5 to 10 Years
As children become more active, it’s advisable to restrict screen time to two hours each day. Establishing rules, such as no screens during meals or before bedtime, can help manage their usage effectively.

11 to 13 Years
During this stage, while schoolwork is important, excessive screen time should still be avoided.

14 to 18 Years
Although it’s challenging to keep teenagers away from screens, teaching them to find a balance is essential. They should focus on getting enough sleep, engaging in physical activities, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Guidelines for Parents
Dr. Malik recommends that parents set clear rules regarding their children's use of mobile devices. Here are some suggestions:

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Designate certain areas in the home as screen-free zones, such as bedrooms, study areas, and dining tables.
Engage with younger children by watching content together and discussing it. Promote outdoor activities, reading, and family time over screen time.
Lastly, parents should model healthy screen habits by limiting their own device usage in front of their children.

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