A Therapist/Mom’s (Realistic) Guide to Screen Time
Screen Time Isn’t the Enemy — But Mindfulness Matters
Let’s talk about screen time.
Whether you're in the thick of summer break, navigating a sick day, or just trying to prep dinner without a toddler on your leg — screens can feel like a lifeline. And the truth is, they can be useful. But like most things in parenting, it’s not black or white. It’s all about moderation and mindfulness.
Not All Screen Time Is Created Equal
The type of content your child watches matters a lot. While high-quality shows can support language development, introduce new ideas, and even help with emotional learning (hello, Daniel Tiger’s jingly life lessons), some content — especially short-form video like YouTube — can be overstimulating .
That’s because YouTube and similar platforms often use fast-paced editing, bright visuals, and sudden sounds designed to grab your child’s attention… and hold it. But that doesn’t mean it’s helping their brain develop in a healthy way.
Here’s what to aim for instead:
Programs with a narrative arc and clear storyline
Shows that encourage empathy, problem-solving, or curiosity
Slow-paced, visually calming content (think Bluey, Puffin Rock, Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood)
Watch How Your Children Act After
One of the biggest signs of whether screen time is working for or against your family is what happens after the show ends.
Do they come away calm and ready to play… or cranky, hyper, and dysregulated?
Every child is different, so the key is observing your kid’s patterns. If a certain show or screen experience leads to a meltdown every time, take note. You can adjust not just how much screen time they get, but what kind — and when in the day it happens.
As therapists offering parenting support in Ontario, we often help families tune into these patterns and create realistic, sustainable routines at home.
Tips for Using Screens More Mindfully
Here are a few gentle guidelines we share with parents in our practice:
Use screens as a tool, not a default. If it’s been a long day and you need a break, that’s okay. Just be aware of the “why” behind turning it on.
Preview or co-watch when you can. You’ll get a feel for what your child is absorbing — and might even spark some great post-show conversations.
Build in transition time. Help your child switch gears after screen time by offering a snack, a cuddle, or a favorite toy to bridge back into real-life play.
Avoid screens before bed. Blue light and fast-paced content can interfere with winding down — consider audio stories or gentle music instead.
The Bottom Line
You don’t have to eliminate screens to be a “good” parent. Screens are a modern reality — and with intention, they can be part of a healthy media diet. The secret isn’t perfection — it’s paying attention and adjusting as you go.
If you’re looking for gentle, evidence-based parenting support in Ontario, our team is here to help. We support parents through all stages — from pregnancy through postpartum and early childhood.
Need a place to start? Sign up for our waitlist for our upcoming parenting course.
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