Toddlers and Preschoolers – Behaviour
Media & Technology Use
Older toddlers and preschoolers may love watching short movies or television programs. Television and movies are one way to encourage children to learn and grow, when used properly. Watching with your child gives you the opportunity to point out ways that the characters are loving, sharing or learning.
Programs that encourage your child to get up and move or sing along with the characters can be a great way to spend a few minutes. But it is recommended that children not spend more than one hour a day watching a screen – be it television, a movie, or a video game.
There are computer games and video games that are created for preschool children and some of them are very educational and fun. If your preschooler enjoys playing these games, keep the amount of time limited to one hour per day (this includes time spent watching television or movies).
Your child will also begin to enjoy listening and moving to music by the time she is one year old. Dancing and singing are great ways to enjoy technology, learning, and exercise. So turn up the music!
- Active Video Gaming – Traditionally, screen time equals couch time, and those who are more sedentary are less likely to be active enough to meet physical activity guidelines. We're not going to turn the clock back on technology, so one strategy for increasing activity levels is to join forces: turn video game time into active time.
- Enjoying TV & Computers With Your Child
- How TV Affects Your Child
- Manitoba Film Classification Board
Find out how to make the best decision when choosing videos and video games for your child. - Ratings for Film, Video & Video Games
- Screen time and young children
- Screen time at home: Healthy habits
- Social media: What parents should know