The short answer
Your baby may watch moving images intently without understanding them as an adult would. At this age, learning depends strongly on faces, voices, touch and movement. The WHO advises against sedentary screen time under one year. The AAP also emphasises limiting screens and preserving shared play. This is not an allowance of a certain number of minutes.
In this guide · 12 sections
Keep in mind
- Your baby may watch moving images intently without understanding them as an adult would. At this age, learning depends strongly on faces, voices, touch and movement.
- A live video call with a grandparent differs from watching a recording alone. The person can respond to your baby's voice and expression, and you can name who is talking.
- Choose two little screen-free moments: roll a toy on the floor and look at a picture book. Name objects and respond to sounds; pause as their interest fades.
- If managing daily life without screens feels extremely difficult, it is reasonable to ask for non-judgemental support. The aim is to protect play, movement, sleep and closeness, not create a perfect home.
Screen guidance for seven to nine months
Your baby may watch moving images intently without understanding them as an adult would. At this age, learning depends strongly on faces, voices, touch and movement.
The WHO advises against sedentary screen time under one year. The AAP also emphasises limiting screens and preserving shared play. This is not an allowance of a certain number of minutes.
Why real play matters
When holding a toy, your baby can turn it, mouth it and drop it as you respond. A screen usually provides only part of this exchange through sounds and pictures.
Watching a ball roll in a video is not the same as rolling one together. The real activity links gaze, hands, movement and your voice; the whole day need not be filled with planned activities.
How video calls differ
A live video call with a grandparent differs from watching a recording alone. The person can respond to your baby's voice and expression, and you can name who is talking.
There is no need to make your baby watch continuously. They may look briefly and return to a toy. The AAP distinguishes shared live calls from routine passive video viewing.
Does my baby need educational videos?
A programme claiming to teach colours, numbers or languages is not needed for a 7- to 9-month-old. Familiar words, faces, objects and turn-taking offer learning opportunities.
You could play music without a video and sing together, or point to a picture in a book. The words “for babies” do not prove a programme is helpful.
What if my baby saw a screen briefly?
Looking at a television briefly does not prove developmental harm. Guidance focuses on everyday patterns and what screens might replace, rather than a single incident.
There may be a television on at home at times; that need not prompt guilt. Notice whether it is regularly replacing play, conversation, mealtimes or comfort.
Screens at mealtimes and bedtime
During meals, looking at your baby's face and movements helps you notice turning away, closing their mouth or reaching for food. Video is not necessary to encourage eating.
At bedtime, a calm familiar sequence, such as dimming lights, talking softly and sharing a short book, may suit better than stimulating images. Being quiet in front of a screen is not always being settled.
Adults and their own phones
Adults sometimes use phones for work or family life. The aim is not to require phone-free parents, but to notice when your baby seeks engagement.
When your baby calls, look up and respond. Turn off notifications during a book or put the phone aside for floor play; what matters is the opportunity to connect.
What can you try today?
Choose two little screen-free moments: roll a toy on the floor and look at a picture book. Name objects and respond to sounds; pause as their interest fades.
For a live family call, stay nearby and introduce the person by name. If using screens for soothing has become common, start by changing one mealtime or play session.
When to ask for support
Screen viewing on its own does not diagnose a developmental condition. Discuss loss of skills or continuing worries about hearing, communication or development with your GP or health visitor.
If managing daily life without screens feels extremely difficult, it is reasonable to ask for non-judgemental support. The aim is to protect play, movement, sleep and closeness, not create a perfect home.
When to seek support
Some signs need emergency help; other concerns can be discussed with your child’s healthcare team.
- Screen viewing on its own does not diagnose a developmental condition. Discuss loss of skills or continuing worries about hearing, communication or development with your GP or health visitor.
- If managing daily life without screens feels extremely difficult, it is reasonable to ask for non-judgemental support. The aim is to protect play, movement, sleep and closeness, not create a perfect home.
Sources used for this guide
- American Academy of Pediatrics / HealthyChildren.org — HealthyChildren – Why It’s Important to Avoid TV for Infants & Toddlers
- American Academy of Pediatrics / HealthyChildren.org — HealthyChildren – Helping Kids Thrive in a Digital World: AAP Policy Explained
- WHO — Guidelines on physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep for children under 5 years of age
- AAP — Screen Time for Infants
- AAP — Tips for Video Chatting with Infants and Toddlers
- AAP — Kids & Screen Time: The 5 Cs Questions to Ask for Infants
- AAP — Helping Kids Thrive in a Digital World: AAP Policy Explained
English editorial review:
The English text and regional guidance have been checked editorially. This is not an individual clinical assessment.
Luluna provides general parenting information. It does not diagnose conditions or replace your child’s healthcare professional.
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