Age-Based Screen Time

Screen Time Limits by Age

A six-year-old and a sixteen-year-old should not have the same device plan. Independence, school demands, social needs, and online risks change with age while sleep, safety, responsibilities, and honest communication remain consistent.

Ages 6–8: build the routine

Keep rules simple and visible. Devices should have clear start and stop points, stay out of bedrooms at night, and follow basic responsibilities such as getting dressed, reading, movement, and tidying up.

Ages 9–12: add responsibility

Connect access to completed routines, teach privacy basics, establish which apps require permission, and make consequences predictable rather than emotional.

Ages 13–17: shift toward accountability

Teenagers need growing autonomy, but sleep, school performance, driving safety, and harmful content remain parent responsibilities. Set protected hours and discuss algorithms and social pressure directly.