Screen time for children – a guide for parents

Screen time is one of the most discussed topics among parents today. How much is too much? Which apps are good? And how can we ensure that children have a healthy and safe digital upbringing? In this article, we give you a research-based guide to screen time for children.

What does the research say?

Research shows that quality is more important than quantity when it comes to screen time. 20 minutes with a good educational app that stimulates learning and creativity is far more valuable than hours of passive entertainment or apps designed to maximize screen time through reward systems.

Studies from organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and Norwegian child health organizations point to several important factors:

• Interactive apps that require active participation are better than passive video consumption
• Shared screen time with parents significantly increases learning outcomes
• Screen-free time before bedtime improves sleep quality
• Balance between physical activity, social play, and screen time is crucial

Norwegian health authorities' recommendations

The Norwegian Directorate of Health and the Norwegian Institute of Public Health have the following general guidelines for screen use:

• 0-2 years: Avoid screen time, except for video calls with family
• 2-5 years: Maximum 1 hour per day with quality content, preferably with parents
• 6-12 years: Limited and planned screen time with focus on learning and creativity
• Teenagers: Structured agreements about screen use, balanced with physical activity and social interaction

It's important to note that these are general recommendations. Each child is unique, and parents must adapt the guidelines to their family's situation.

Quality over quantity

The most important lesson from research is that what children use the screen for is far more important than how long. A good educational app is characterized by:

• Age-appropriate content that challenges without frustrating
• Interactivity that requires active participation from the child
• No ads or in-app purchases
• Respect for privacy – no unnecessary data collection
• No manipulative reward systems that create dependency
• Focus on learning, creativity, or problem-solving

How to choose good apps

Appguiden uses the following criteria to evaluate children's apps:

Practical tips for parents

1. Make clear agreements: Establish fixed routines for when and how long the screen should be used
2. Be involved: Use apps together with your child, especially at first
3. Evaluate apps first: Test apps before giving them to children. Look for ads, purchases, and data sharing
4. Prioritize ad-free apps: Children should not be exposed to marketing while playing and learning
5. Screen-free zones: Keep meals and bedrooms screen-free
6. Balance: Ensure that screen time doesn't come at the expense of physical activity, outdoor play, and social interaction
7. Be a good role model: Children copy parents' screen habits

Warning signs of inappropriate screen use

Be aware of these signs that may indicate problematic screen use:

• The child becomes extremely frustrated or angry when the screen is taken away
• Screen time comes at the expense of sleep, physical activity, or social interaction
• The child only talks about apps or games
• Concentration problems or restlessness increase
• The child lies about or hides screen use

If you recognize several of these points, it may be wise to set stricter boundaries and possibly seek advice from a health center or family counseling.

Summary

Screen time itself is not dangerous – it's what and how the screen is used that matters. By choosing quality apps, setting clear boundaries, and being actively present, digital tools can be a positive part of children's everyday lives.

Appguiden helps you find apps that actually provide value – apps that are safe, educational, and made with children's best interests in mind, not maximum screen time or advertising exposure.