The American Academy of Pediatrics advises avoiding screen media other than video chatting for children younger than 18 to 24 months, and limiting children aged 2 to 5 to about one hour a day of high-quality programming, watched with a parent where possible. For older children, the AAP recommends a family media plan with consistent limits. Good learning apps have no ads, no pressure to buy and a clear skill they teach.
Screens are part of childhood now. The question is how much, and which apps actually teach.
AAP guidance by age
| Age | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Under 18 months | Avoid screen media except video chatting |
| 18 to 24 months | If introducing media, choose high-quality programs and watch together |
| 2 to 5 years | About 1 hour a day of high-quality programming, co-viewed when possible |
| 6 and older | Consistent limits set in a family media plan, protecting sleep, activity and time together |
Choosing a learning app
| Check | Good sign | Warning sign |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Teaches a named skill (letters, counting, phonics) | Vague “brain games” |
| Ads | None | Pop-up ads, video ads between levels |
| Purchases | One price or clear subscription | Coins, gems or locked levels that push spending |
| Design | Ends after a lesson | Autoplay and endless rewards |
| Privacy | Clear policy, COPPA statement for under-13s | Asks for personal data |
Hands-on learning first
For preschoolers, blocks, puzzles, books, drawing and conversation do most of the work. Use apps for short, specific practice. For reading, an app works best alongside a structured phonics program. For older children interested in technology, coding kits offer screen-light options.
Browse early learning.
Common questions
How much screen time is OK for a 3-year-old?
The AAP suggests about one hour a day of high-quality programming for children 2 to 5, ideally watched together with an adult.
Are educational apps good for toddlers?
For children under 18 to 24 months, the AAP advises avoiding screen media other than video chat. Hands-on play and talking with adults matter more.
What makes a learning app good?
A clear skill it teaches, no ads or in-app purchase pressure, feedback that helps the child improve, and an end point rather than endless play.
Does video chatting count as screen time?
The AAP treats video chatting with family differently from other screen media, even for babies.