How Much Screen Time Is Too Much?
Screens are everywhere. From TVs and tablets to phones and smartwatches, managing screen time has become one of the biggest parenting challenges of the modern age. Whether you’re raising a toddler in Cincinnati’s Hyde Park or juggling multiple kids in Cleveland’s West Park, you’ve likely asked yourself:
“How much screen time is okay?”
“Is it bad for my toddler to watch cartoons?”
“What’s the right balance for our family?”
This comprehensive guide answers those questions, shares expert-backed recommendations, and offers real-world tips for busy parents navigating screen time—especially those working with nannies or childcare providers.
Why Screen Time Matters
Screens aren’t inherently bad—but how, when, and how often we use them matters. Research shows that too much screen time in early childhood can lead to:
Delayed language development
Difficulty focusing
Sleep disruptions
Behavioral issues
Reduced physical activity
That said, not all screen time is equal, and some digital content can be educational and enriching when used intentionally.
Official Screen Time Guidelines
From the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP):
Under 18 months: Avoid screen time except for video chatting.
18–24 months: Introduce high-quality programming with adult co-viewing.
2–5 years: Limit to one hour per day of high-quality programming.
6 years and older: Create consistent limits on screen time and ensure it doesn't interfere with sleep, physical activity, or social interaction.
Types of Screen Time
Not all screen time looks the same, so let’s break it down:
🧠 Passive Viewing
Watching cartoons, YouTube, or movies. Entertaining but not interactive.
👨👧 Co-Viewing
Watching alongside a caregiver or nanny, with conversation and engagement. Much more beneficial!
📱 Interactive Learning
Apps or games designed to promote early literacy, math, or creativity—ideally used together with an adult.
💤 Background Screen Time
TV on “just for noise” can actually distract kids and interfere with play—even if they’re not actively watching.
Screen Time in Cincinnati & Cleveland Households
At Hunny Nanny Agency, we work with hundreds of families across Greater Cincinnati and Northeast Ohio. Here’s what we’ve observed:
Families with structured screen time routines see fewer tantrums over devices.
Screen limits are more successful when nannies and parents are aligned on expectations.
Kids thrive when screens are a supplement—not a substitute—for real-world play and relationships.
The Impact of Too Much Screen Time
🗣️ Language Delays
Kids need real conversation to develop vocabulary. Passive screen watching can limit that exposure.
😴 Sleep Disruption
Screens—especially before bed—suppress melatonin production and can delay sleep onset.
🧠 Attention Issues
Fast-paced apps and shows may overstimulate young brains, making it harder to focus on slower, real-world tasks like reading or puzzles.
🛑 Less Self-Regulation
Frequent screen use can interfere with a child’s ability to manage boredom, frustration, or disappointment—leading to more tantrums and meltdowns.
When Screen Time Can Be Helpful
Used intentionally, screens can:
Help calm a child during travel or long waits
Provide connection through video calls with family
Offer learning experiences through guided educational content
Be a valuable part of a caregiver's “toolkit” when used strategically
💡 Pro Tip: Work with your nanny to set screen boundaries that fit your family’s values and your child’s temperament.
How to Set Healthy Screen Habits
1. Create a Family Media Plan
The AAP offers a free tool to set screen time goals:
📍 HealthyChildren.org/MediaUsePlan
2. Establish Screen-Free Zones
No screens during:
Meals
In bed
While getting ready for school
Family time (like walks or outings)
3. Be a Role Model
If your child sees you scrolling nonstop, they’ll want to do the same. Be mindful of your own habits.
4. Offer Alternatives
Boredom sparks creativity! Swap screen time for:
Sensory bins
Dress-up play
Art stations
Reading corners
Outdoor time
5. Use Screen Time as a Tool, Not a Crutch
It’s okay to allow TV or tablet time to take a shower or prep dinner—but don’t rely on it for every transition.
Choosing the Right Content
Look for shows and apps that are:
Age-appropriate
Slow-paced and simple
Free of ads and in-app purchases
Built around real-world concepts (numbers, emotions, social play)
Recommended Platforms:
PBS Kids
Sesame Street
National Geographic Kids
Khan Academy Kids
ABCmouse (paid)
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood
Tips for Nanny-Supported Screen Time
At Hunny Nanny Agency, our caregivers are trained to follow the family’s screen use preferences. We recommend parents:
Write a clear screen time policy in the nanny’s work agreement
List what’s approved (e.g., 30 minutes of PBS at 4:30 PM)
Specify what’s off-limits (YouTube, unsupervised tablet use, etc.)
Check in weekly to adjust based on behavior or developmental needs
Local Alternatives to Screen Time
Looking for screen-free fun in Cincinnati or Cleveland? Check out these local gems:
Cincinnati:
Blue Manatee Literacy Project – storytimes & books
Cincinnati Nature Center – hiking, nature-based play
Highfield Discovery Garden – outdoor imaginative spaces
Cleveland:
Cleveland Children’s Museum – play-based learning exhibits
NatureTracks at Rocky River Reservation – nature trails for kids
Cuyahoga County Public Libraries – free weekly toddler programs
What About Older Kids?
For school-aged children, screen time often includes homework, virtual learning, and socializing. Here’s how to help balance it:
Use parental control apps (like Bark or Circle) to manage time limits
Require device use in shared spaces—not bedrooms
Set “tech-free” hours, like 6–8 PM for family dinner and wind-down time
What If You’re Struggling?
You're not alone! Setting limits can feel impossible, especially if:
You use screens to manage multiple kids
You work from home and need quiet time
Your child tantrums without screens
In these cases, try:
Reducing slowly instead of going cold turkey
Using timers or visuals to signal “screen time is almost done”
Talking to your nanny or pediatrician for support
And remember: it’s okay to have off days—it’s about the big picture, not perfection.
Final Thoughts
There’s no perfect answer to screen time—but there is a balanced, intentional approach that works for your child and family. Whether you’re raising your kids in Cleveland’s suburbs or Cincinnati’s downtown, keep this in mind:
✨ Screens are a tool. Relationships are the foundation.
When used wisely, screens can support—not replace—your child's development, learning, and joy.
Need Help Creating Healthy Routines?
Whether you want a nanny who avoids screens completely or one who can implement a mindful tech strategy, Hunny Nanny Agency is here to help.
🎯 Trained, pre-vetted nannies
🧸 Personalized support for your family's routines
📍 Serving Cincinnati & Cleveland families
🌐 www.hunnynannyagency.com
📧 katherine@hunnynannyagency.com
Let’s find the balance—together.
