Episode Title: How Much Screen Time Should Your Baby Have?

 

Episode Description:

Is screen time harmful for babies? What does the science really say? In this episode of It’s Good to See You: Eye Health, Vision Care & More, Dr. Rupa Wong breaks down the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendations, dives into fascinating studies on how screens affect the developing brain, and explores the often-overlooked issue of secondhand screen exposure. You’ll learn:• What the AAP and the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS) recommend for screen time.

 

The latest research, including EEG studies on the impact of screens on babies’ brains.

 How secondhand screen time—like background TV—affects your child’s development.

 Practical, actionable tips to create healthy screen habits for your family.

Whether you’re a first-time parent or just trying to navigate screens in a tech-heavy world, this episode is packed with science-backed insights and advice you can trust.

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. The Guidelines: AAP and AAPOS recommendations for screen time by age group and why they matter.

2. The Research: The surprising findings from EEG studies on how screen exposure affects neural development, attention spans, and sleep cycles.

3. Secondhand Screen Time: Why background media might be more harmful than you think and how it impacts language acquisition and play.

4. Long-Term Impacts: How excessive screen time can lead to attention difficulties, language delays, and even physical health issues like disrupted sleep and obesity.

5. Practical Tips: Simple strategies to balance screen time with real-world activities and create a screen-free environment that fosters development.

 

Key Takeaways:

• The AAP recommends no screen time for children under 18 months, except for video chatting, and no more than 1 hour per day for ages 2-5, focusing on high-quality content with caregiver co-viewing.

• EEG studies show that screen exposure in babies can impact brain areas responsible for language, executive function, and emotional regulation.

• Secondhand screen time, such as background TV, reduces caregiver interaction and engagement, which is crucial for language and social skills.• Balanced screen use and intentional, interactive activities are key to healthy development.

 

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• AAP Screen Time Recommendations

• AAPOS Guidelines on Screen Time

• Study on Background Media and Language Development

• JAMA Pediatrics Study on Long-Term Effects of Screen Time

 

Connect With Me:

• Website: www.drrupawong.com

• Instagram: @drrupawong• Podcast: It’s Good to See You

 

Join the Conversation:

Have questions about screen time or tips to share? Leave me a voicemail, and I’ll include it in a future episode!