“No screen time under 2!”
We’ve all heard the advice — and for many parents, it comes with a wave of guilt. But here’s the truth: screen time isn’t inherently bad. What really matters is how we use it.
At Communication Junction, we believe that screens, when used thoughtfully, can be a powerful tool for connection, learning, and communication. The American Academy of Pediatrics agrees, encouraging parents to make mindful choices that support their child’s development.
- Until 18 months of age limit screen use to video chatting along with an adult.
- Between 18 and 24 months screen time should be limited to watching educational programming with a caregiver.
So how do you do that? The first step is understanding the difference between Passive and Active Screen Time.
What is Passive Screen Time
This is when a child watches a screen without interaction or engagement. Think of a toddler zoning out to YouTube or flipping through an app solo. There’s little to no opportunity for learning, imitation, or connection — and that’s where the concern lies.
What is Active Screen Time
Active Screen Time involves a child interacting with an adult while watching a screen. It might look like co-watching a show and talking about what’s happening, FaceTiming with a grandparent, or attending a live virtual class where your child sings, signs, and moves along with the instructor while receiving real time feedback and interaction.
In this setting, your child is:
- Practicing language through imitation
- Developing communication skills
- Strengthening bonds with caregivers
- Learning in real-time, interactive ways
This is where meaningful growth happens.
You can turn almost any screen experience into a learning opportunity with three key strategies:
1. Choose High-Quality Programming
Look for shows and videos created by educators or professionals in early childhood development. These programs are designed to encourage participation through songs, signs, movement, and books.
2. Create a Co-Viewing Environment
Join your child! Ask questions, label what you see, imitate actions, and model communication. Your presence helps your child make sense of what they’re watching and builds their vocabulary in the process.
3. Engage in Interactive Settings
Live, virtual experiences — like Communication Junction’s Sign + Play Classes and Story Times — offer a unique opportunity to turn screen time into social, educational play. Your child will move, sing, sign, and learn alongside peers and a trained instructor, all with you by their side.
Communication Junction: A Better Way to Use Screen Time
Not all screens are created equal — and that’s why we’ve designed our classes and story times to be active, interactive, and developmentally appropriate.
Our programs are:
- Music-based
- Vocabulary-rich (words and signs)
- Literacy-focused
- Led by professional educators
Whether you’re attending virtually or in person, our goal is to equip your child with language tools while building joyful connections with you.
We’ve created a free printable guide to help you make the most of screen time at home.
Ready to explore a more purposeful way to use screen time?
Sign up here for one of our engaging, family-friendly classes today!
Screen time doesn’t have to come with a side of guilt.
With the right tools and a little intention, it can become one of the most powerful ways you connect, communicate, and grow with your child.
