Guide to High-Quality Screen Time Programs for Toddlers and Young Kids

Article

• Choosing high-quality programs for screen time can help support kids’ learning and early development.

• Look for children’s media that is interactive and low-stimulating, involves reading, or teaches life skills.

• Other screen time tips include limiting device use before bed and talking to your kids about what they watch.

Let’s be honest—sometimes, screens save the day. When you're juggling a work deadline, a mountain of laundry, and a toddler who’s suddenly decided naps are so last week, handing over the tablet can feel like a lifeline. And hey, that’s okay!

While it’s still important to keep screen time in check for toddlers and young kids, a little here and there—especially when it’s high-quality content—can actually support their learning and development (and maybe your sanity, too).

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against screen time for babies under 18 months. See our screen time guidelines by age to find recommended limits for kids aged 18 months to 6+ years.

But with a gazillion apps, shows, and videos out there, how do you separate the brain-boosting gems from the noisy nonsense? We’ve got you. Follow our guide to find smart, kid-approved screen time picks that make you feel good about hitting “play.”

What High-Quality Screen Time Actually Looks Like

Not all screen time is created equal—some of it helps your kid learn new skills, while some of it just... teaches them how to make loud noises and jump off the couch.

Here’s how to spot screen time that’s more “learning is fun” and less “why is everything screaming?”

Interactive Kids’ Programs/Games

Interactive media invites your child to join the story and actively engage in learning. These are educational shows or apps where the narrator or main character speaks directly to the audience and encourages them to talk back—in a good way!

Look for shows or apps that.…

• Ask your child questions (and wait for their answer!)

• Encourage decision-making or problem-solving

• Introduce early subjects like letters, numbers, music, or imagination

• Get kids to repeat new words/sounds (the good kind with educational value)

• Teach songs or dances your kid can follow along with

Slow-Paced/Low-Stimulating Content

Some kids’ shows and videos move at the speed of light, with action-packed scenes and chaotic sound effects that could overstimulate any young child, let alone those with sensory issues.

That’s why it’s best to stick to simple, slower-paced shows with…

• One clear story or theme per episode

• Gentle visuals and sound effects

• Normal-paced, easy-to-follow dialogue

And try to limit shows with…

• Multiple storylines bouncing around at once

• Loud, nonstop sound effects

• Flashing/strobing lights

• Dizzying colors/patterns

• Characters who talk fast (no auctioneer energy, please)

Children’s E-Books/Read-Aloud Videos

Screen time that feels like story time? Yes, please! E-books or read-aloud videos are great for building vocabulary and early literacy skills. You can choose books based on a specific learning goal—such as learning new words, shapes, colors—or those that introduce basic concepts like sharing or winning/losing.

The best kinds of e-books/read-aloud videos for kids usually feature:

• A narrator who speaks slowly and clearly

• A narrator who does more than read—like talking about the pictures or asking your child what they think (this is more for read-aloud videos)

• Repetition and rhyming (helps kids retain info better!)

• Light music and sound effects that make it extra engaging

Shows That Teach Kids Life Skills

Some of the best programs sneak in life lessons, like how to be a good friend or handle big feelings—without sounding like a lecture. They naturally teach kids important skills such as:

• Social-emotional skills (empathy, sharing, managing emotions)

• Executive function skills (following directions, solving problems, staying on task)

These lessons usually show up through the storyline, or come wrapped up in a sweet little moral at the end—kind of like veggies hidden in mac and cheese.

General Screen Time Tips for Toddlers and Young Kids

Let’s face it: screen time isn’t going anywhere. But with a few smart adjustments, you can make it work for your family. Here are a few tips to help:

• Power down an hour before bedtime. Even the calmest shows can keep kids in playtime mode at night. Give their minds (and yours) a chance to wind down screen-free.

• Keep devices out of the bedroom. That goes for TVs, tablets, phones—basically anything with a glowing screen. A quiet, dark room = better sleep for everyone.

• Model the screen habits you want to see. This means putting your phone away at family meals, not-scrolling mid-convo, and being fully present during playtime with your children (we know, easier said than done some days).

• Be curious about what they’re watching. Ask questions like:

  • What was your favorite part, and why?

  • Can you tell me something new that you learned?

  • What would you have done if you were [that character]?

  • How would you solve the problem in a different way?

• Bring the screen to life: Extend their learning beyond the screen! If your kid just watched a show about animals, take a trip to the zoo. If they saw something about shapes, go on a shape hunt around the house.

See more screen time tips to make the most of your child’s technology use.

Remember: balance is everything. Not every screen moment has to be a learning opportunity. It’s totally fine to throw on a silly show so you can drink a cup of coffee while it’s still hot (or take a work call without a kid on your sleeve!). Curated kid-safe platforms can be a lifesaver when you need a break—just check in later to make sure it’s content you’re cool with.

When technology time is over and boredom hits, try these screen-free activities with the kids!