Young Children and Technology: Finding a Healthy Balance

Technology is part of the world our children are growing up in, and it can be a wonderful tool for learning and connection. But for young children, it’s important to strike a healthy balance — making sure screens support development rather than replace valuable real-world experiences. At Seeds of Jesus Day Care, we focus on giving children what they need most at this age: active play, social interaction, and hands-on learning.

Understanding Screen Time Guidelines

Leading child development experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), recommend:

• Under 18 months: Avoid screens except for occasional video chatting.

• Ages 2–5: Limit to about one hour per day of high-quality programming, watched together with an adult.

The reason? In-person experiences — building blocks, playing outdoors, talking with friends, and reading with caregivers — develop young brains in ways screens can’t replicate.

How We Approach Technology at Seeds of Jesus

While we do introduce age-appropriate educational technology, it’s never the centerpiece of the day. Instead, we:

• Use short, guided screen activities as a supplement to hands-on learning.

• Ensure any tech use is interactive and purposeful — not passive “watching.”

• Keep most of the day focused on real-world exploration, play, and conversation in both English and Spanish.

• Encourage physical activity, creativity, and collaboration over digital entertainment.

Why Less Screen Time Means More Growth

When young children spend less time on screens, they have more opportunities to:

• Build language and social skills through face-to-face interaction.

• Develop fine and gross motor skills through active play.

• Strengthen problem-solving abilities through imaginative, unstructured activities.

• Experience God’s creation through outdoor play and nature exploration.

Partnering with Parents

We know every family has different routines and comfort levels with technology. That’s why we communicate openly about our approach, share tips for healthy media use at home, and provide resources for families who want to create more balance in their child’s day.

Keeping God at the Center

Our goal isn’t to eliminate technology but to use it wisely — as a tool, not a substitute for human connection. By keeping faith and relationships at the heart of learning, we help children see that the most important connections in life aren’t digital; they’re with God, family, and friends.