What are the current AAP guidelines for screen time in children aged 2–5 years?

• A. Limit to 1 hour per day of high-quality programming, with no screens for children under 2; co-viewing is encouraged
• B. 2 hours per day of any programming; no co-viewing
• C. No screen time allowed at all
• D. 30 minutes per day of news content only

Answer: (A)

For preschoolers, the approach centers on careful, purposeful screen use rather than free,Unlimited time. For ages 2–5, the guidance is to limit to about one hour per day of high-quality programming, and to avoid screens for children younger than 2, with parents watching together when screens are used.

Why this matters: this age is a window where language, attention, and social skills are rapidly developing. High-quality, age-appropriate content can support learning, especially when a caregiver actively co-views. Watching together helps explain what’s on the screen, expands vocabulary, and connects what’s seen to real-life experiences, turning screen time into an interactive, educational activity rather than passive consumption.

The emphasis on limiting to one hour and on co-viewing is about balancing potential benefits with risks. Excess screen time can displace physical activity, sleep, and meaningful parent-child interaction. Early screens for very young children offer little developmental benefit, hence the recommendation to avoid any screen exposure before age 2 except for occasional video calls to stay connected with family.

The other options don’t fit because they either allow too much time, suggest no screens only for this age range, or focus on a non-educational content type. The correct approach supports development through supervised, purposeful use of high-quality content.