Media usage times

Reading Time: Minutes

How long should my child use digital media?

Media usage is an integral part of children’s and adolescents’ daily lives. From smartphones to tablets, televisions, and gaming consoles, digital devices offer many opportunities and are available in many households at any time. This raises the question for parents: How much screen time is appropriate, and how can responsible usage be encouraged?

There is no fixed rule, but there are guidelines on how long a child should use media each day, as every child has different needs and habits. For example, experts from the DGKJ recommend a maximum of 30 minutes daily for children aged 4-6 years and a maximum of 45 minutes per day for those aged 6-9 years. It is important to consider children’s daily routines. Children already use computers and tablets in school for learning apps, research, or homework, which naturally increases their screen time. Flexibility is key here. The goal is to set media times that align with other activities, such as physical exercise and social interactions.

A jointly established contract regarding media usage can help find clear and age-appropriate rules. The "Mobile Phone Agreement" template provided in this article can assist you with this. Sit down with your child and set fixed times and rules for media usage—also plan media-free times, such as during shared meals. These times apply to adults as well. This creates clarity, and your child learns to take responsibility. Such agreements help ensure that media time is used consciously and that rules are followed.

Note

If your child discusses wanting a few more minutes of screen time, this can also be a good sign—it shows that your child is engaging with the agreements and their significance.

Frequently asked questions:

Yes, there are guidelines, such as those from the Media Guideline for Kids of all Ages . However, it is crucial to adapt them to your child's needs and daily environment.

If media usage displaces other activities, talk to your child about it and try to offer alternatives. Joint rules and fixed times are helpful. If your child’s behavior noticeably changes, seeking professional help may be advisable.

Discuss with your child that each family has its own rules. Explain your decisions and suggest alternatives to have fun together.

Materials for download

With our cell phone agreement as an interactive form or for downloading, you can set planned cell phone times together with your child.