In today’s digital world, screens are everywhere — from tablets and smartphones to televisions and computers. For whānau with young tamariki, navigating screen time can feel overwhelming. How much is too much? What content is appropriate? How do we balance technology with real-world learning? At Kids Connect, we understand these challenges and are here to support you with research-based guidance.
Understanding the Research
The latest research from New Zealand and international sources provides clear guidance about screen time for young children. The Ministry of Health recommends:
- Under 2 years: No screen time (except video calling with whānau)
- 2-5 years: No more than one hour per day of quality programming
- All ages: No screens during meals or one hour before bedtime
These recommendations aren’t about being anti-technology — they’re based on understanding how young brains develop. During the early years, tamariki need real-world experiences to build crucial neural pathways. They learn best through hands-on exploration, face-to-face interaction, and active play.
Why Less is More in Early Childhood
Critical Brain Development
The first five years are when 90% of brain development occurs. During this time, children need:
- Real interactions to develop language and social skills
- Physical movement to build motor skills and spatial awareness
- Sensory experiences to understand their world
- Imaginative play to develop creativity and problem-solving
Screen time, even educational content, can’t replicate these essential experiences. When tamariki spend time with screens, they miss opportunities for the activities their developing brains truly need.
The Impact on Learning
Research shows excessive screen time in early childhood can affect:
- Language development — Children learn language through back-and-forth conversation, not passive viewing
- Attention skills — Fast-paced screen content can make real-world learning seem slow and boring
- Sleep patterns — Blue light disrupts natural sleep rhythms, affecting behaviour and learning
- Physical health — Screen time often replaces active play, contributing to childhood obesity
Quality Over Quantity
Choosing Better Content
If you do use screens with your 2-5 year old, focus on quality:
Good choices include:
- Slow-paced programmes with educational value
- Content that encourages participation (singing, counting, moving)
- Stories that reflect New Zealand culture and values
- Programmes you can watch together and discuss
Avoid:
- Fast-paced shows with rapid scene changes
- Content with aggressive behaviour or scary themes
- Background TV that disrupts play and conversation
- Using screens to manage behaviour or emotions
Making Screen Time Interactive
When screens are used, make them a shared experience:
- Watch together and talk about what you see
- Pause to ask questions and make connections
- Relate content to real-world experiences
- Follow up with related activities (drawing, playing, exploring)
Creating Screen-Free Zones
Establishing boundaries helps create healthy habits:
Screen-Free Spaces:
- Bedrooms (supports better sleep)
- Dining areas (protects family meal times)
- Car (except long trips)
- Play areas (preserves imaginative play)
Screen-Free Times:
- First thing in the morning
- During meals
- One hour before bed
- During whānau activities
Real-World Alternatives
Replacing Screen Time with Rich Experiences
Instead of reaching for a device, try:
For entertainment:
- Read books together (visit Ōtāhuhu Library for new selections)
- Create art with simple materials
- Build with blocks or cardboard boxes
- Play dress-up and imagine stories
For learning:
- Count objects during daily routines
- Name colours and shapes in nature
- Sing waiata and nursery rhymes
- Cook together (measuring, mixing, observing changes)
For calm moments:
- Listen to music or audiobooks
- Do simple yoga or stretching
- Create a calm-down basket with sensory items
- Practice breathing exercises together
Managing Modern Challenges
When Others Don’t Share Your Approach
It’s challenging when grandparents, other caregivers, or older siblings have different screen rules. Try:
- Sharing research in a non-judgmental way
- Explaining your family’s values around screen time
- Suggesting alternative activities they can do with your child
- Being flexible for special occasions while maintaining daily limits
Dealing with Screen-Time Battles
Reducing screen time can lead to resistance. Make transitions easier by:
- Giving warnings (“Two more minutes, then screens off”)
- Having a fun activity ready to transition to
- Being consistent with rules
- Modelling good screen habits yourself
- Praising engagement in screen-free activities
The Kids Connect Approach
At our centre, we prioritise hands-on, real-world learning experiences. Our screen-free environment allows tamariki to:
- Engage deeply in play without digital distractions
- Develop strong social connections with peers
- Build attention and focus through meaningful activities
- Experience the joy of discovery through all their senses
We occasionally use technology as a tool (such as video calling absent friends or researching a question together), but it’s always purposeful, supervised, and followed by real-world exploration.
Supporting Your Journey
Practical Tips for Whānau
Start small: If your child is used to lots of screen time, reduce gradually Be consistent: Clear, consistent rules help children adjust Stay strong: Initial resistance will fade as new routines establish Get support: Share challenges with other parents or our kaiako
Create a family media plan:
- Decide on daily limits
- Choose appropriate content together
- Set screen-free times and zones
- Plan alternative activities
Looking Forward
Technology will always be part of our tamariki’s lives, but the early years are precious and irreplaceable. By limiting screen time now, we give children the gift of real experiences that build strong foundations for future learning.
Remember, you’re not depriving your child by limiting screens — you’re providing them with what they truly need: your attention, real-world exploration, and the space to develop at their natural pace.
The habits we build in early childhood last a lifetime. By choosing connection over screens, we’re raising tamariki who know how to engage with the world around them, build real relationships, and find joy in simple pleasures.
Need support managing screen time at home? Our kaiako are always happy to share strategies and activity ideas. Together, we can help your tamariki thrive in our digital world while preserving the magic of childhood.