Screen media and child development

Digital media plays an increasingly important role in our everyday lives. It presents both challenges and opportunities for families. Below you will learn a lot about the use of screen media such as mobile phones, tablets and televisions. In addition, you will receive practical tips for everyday family life.

What do you have to consider with babies and toddlers?

Delay the use of digital media for toddlers.
Only use your mobile phone, tablet or TV in exceptional cases to calm them down or prevent them from becoming bored. Instead, approach your child and offer them alternatives. This makes them feel understood and teaches them to regulate their own emotions.
Be a good role model and consciously take time away from screens.
Your child learns from you and imitates you. Show your child from the outset how to deal with boredom without a mobile phone. Think about when and why you use digital media yourself. Put your mobile phone aside when in contact with your child. If you still want to use it, tell them this in advance. This lets your child get used to it, as with other everyday interruptions of attention owing to the needs of adults (e.g., personal care, cooking, meals).
If possible, do not use it next to your child. Otherwise, this could impair brain development.
Switch off devices. Screen media should not be constantly visible or audible, otherwise they will be very appealing. The TV in the background can overwhelm babies and small children. It is therefore best to switch it off during the day. You can also place a colourful cloth over it. You should also set your mobile phone to silent so you are not distracted immediately. If contact between you and your child is repeatedly interrupted, this can lead to your child suffering attachment and developmental disorders.
Set clear rules.
Determine when, why, how often and for how long your child can use digital media. As a guide: 10 to 15 minutes at a time is usually enough. Being clear about this makes it easier for your child to gradually accept this and for you to endure their protesting.
Look out for signs. When is playing or watching videos too much for your child? Take action if your child seems restless or overwhelmed or no longer shows interest in it. Offer alternatives and help your child switch off the device. You can, for example, propose using the off button together.
Make sure they get enough exercise and a good night's sleep.
All screens should be out of sight at least one hour before bedtime. Digital media generate stimuli and have a negative effect on falling and staying asleep. You should also refrain from using digital media when eating, because they distract children too much from paying attention to their own bodies.

Further information on media use in early childhood can be found at: