The short answer
For children aged 18–24 months, AAP says that if families introduce media, they should choose high-quality content and use it together. For 2-year-olds, CDC suggests no more than 1 hour a day of quality children’s programming with an adult present. Protect time for sleep, play, meals, and conversation.
In this guide · 11 sections
Keep in mind
- For ages 18–24 months, introduce media only if your family chooses, and watch or use it together.
- For 2-year-olds, CDC suggests no more than 1 hour a day of quality children’s programming with an adult present.
- Keep screens from replacing sleep, active play, meals, and back-and-forth conversation.
Is screen use completely off-limits at 19–24 months?
US guidance does not treat every screen activity the same way for this age range.
For children aged 18–24 months, AAP says that if families introduce media, they should choose high-quality content and watch or use it together.
For 2-year-olds, CDC suggests no more than 1 hour a day of quality children’s programming with an adult present.
Why is watching together important?
Young toddlers learn through responsive interaction. Sitting with your child lets you name what is happening, answer a question, or connect a screen idea to real life.
Choose content that is age-appropriate and calm, and stop if it upsets your child or is hard to follow.
A screen should not be used as a regular substitute for adult interaction or as the only way to settle your child.
Does a video call count as screen use?
A video call still uses a screen, but it is interactive and can help a toddler connect with family or friends.
Stay with your child, talk with the person on the call, and keep the exchange short and engaging.
AAP guidance distinguishes interactive video chatting with family from passive viewing.
What content may be more suitable?
For US families who choose media for an 18–24-month-old, AAP advises selecting high-quality content and watching or playing alongside the child.
For a 2-year-old, CDC advises no more than 1 hour a day of quality children’s programming with an adult present.
Choose content that is age-appropriate and easy to follow, and stop if it upsets your child.
What should screen time not replace?
Protect time for sleep, active play, outdoor movement, meals, books, and conversation.
Try screen-free meals and avoid screens in the hour before bedtime, especially if they make settling harder.
Background television can interrupt play and conversation even when your child is not watching directly.
Should I use a screen during a tantrum?
A screen may sometimes distract a child, but relying on it every time can make it harder to practise other ways of calming and connecting.
First check whether your toddler is tired, hungry, uncomfortable, or overwhelmed. Stay nearby and offer comfort or a simple alternative.
If you do use a screen, make a calm transition plan and turn it off when your child is settled enough to move on.
Does background TV matter?
A television or video playing in the background can distract from conversation, play, or mealtimes even if your toddler seems focused elsewhere.
Turn off screens when nobody is watching and choose music or quiet conversation if you want background sound.
Adults’ device use can also interrupt shared attention, so try setting your own phone aside during play.
What can I do today?
Check the current guidance for your child’s age and where you live, especially around the second birthday.
If you choose a screen activity, sit together, choose something age-appropriate, and talk about it.
Try one screen-free meal, play period, or bedtime routine.
Notice whether screen use is affecting sleep, movement, conversation, or family routines.
When to seek support
Some signs need emergency help; other concerns can be discussed with your child’s healthcare team.
- Seek advice if screen use is regularly disrupting sleep, play, communication, family routines, or your child’s wellbeing.
Sources used for this guide
- American Academy of Pediatrics / HealthyChildren.org — HealthyChildren – Helping Kids Thrive in a Digital World: AAP Policy Explained
- American Academy of Pediatrics / HealthyChildren.org — HealthyChildren – Kids & Screen Time: The 5 C's Questions to Ask for Toddlers
- www.cdc.gov — regional guidance
- www.healthychildren.org — regional guidance
- www.gov.uk — regional guidance
- beststartinlife.gov.uk — regional guidance
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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