How much screen time is right for pre-school children?
The World Health Organization recommends no sedentary screen time for children under 2, and no more than 1 hour a day for children aged 2 to 4, with less being better. Children of 3 to 4 should get at least 180 minutes of varied physical activity a day. In pre-primary classes, keep screens rare and purposeful, and prioritise talk, play and books.
What this means in practice
Screens displace conversation and active play, which young children need most.
If you use screens in class
- Keep it short (a few minutes)
- Watch together and talk about it
- Use it for things children cannot see otherwise
- Follow with a hands-on activity
Advice for parents
Encourage screen-free mealtimes and bedtimes, co-viewing, and outdoor play every day.
Talking to parents about screens
Many parents rely on screens to keep children busy. Avoid blame; instead, share simple alternatives: a basket of books, playdough, building toys, songs, and involving children in chores. Suggest screen-free routines at meals and bedtime, watching together when screens are used, and outdoor play every day. Small, realistic changes are more likely to stick than strict rules.
Practical next steps
- Review how often your class uses screens.
- Replace screen time with active play.
- Share WHO guidance with parents.
Common follow-up questions
Is educational TV fine?
In small amounts with adult interaction.
What about online classes for preschoolers?
Keep them short and interactive, with a parent nearby.
Sources
Course facts from APTTI's published course pages, checked 10 October 2026. Editorial policy.