When is it Ok to Let Your Baby Watch TV?

When is it Ok to Let Your Baby Watch TV?

Harmless, harmful—or somewhere in between? Here’s the latest from the pediatric community, and how to keep baby entertained without tech.

Baby sitting in front of television Parent holding baby while TV is on in background

Picture it: You’re out to dinner with your little cutie, eager to get them accustomed to being out in public and also excited to enjoy a meal and conversation with your partner, when suddenly bubs starts acting up. No worries—you stocked your diaper bag with their favorite toys and soft books. But one by one, each of your well-planned tricks is tossed aside in an escalating tantrum. Panic sets in, and the only thing left in your calm-down arsenal is, well, your phone. Could it be that hard to find a cute, baby-friendly cartoon on the internet? And is it really that bad to hand over the screen if it buys you and your partner some peace and quiet?

Is TV Bad For Babies?

That go-to last resort may do more harm than good when it comes to your baby’s development. Research published in JAMA Pediatrics in August 2023 found that one-year-olds exposed to screen time developed delays in communication and problem-solving at ages 2 and 4 years old. While the study found an association between screen use and developmental milestones, it didn’t directly prove cause and effect. That said, among the 7,097 children in the study, researchers discovered that the more screen time babies had, the greater their chances of developmental delays.

When Can Babies Watch TV?

Those findings give parents another reason to follow the official guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Both discourage any “sedentary screen time” for children younger than 2 years old—whether it’s on a TV screen, computer, or mobile device. For children ages 2–5, the recommendation is to limit screen time to less than one hour per day.

So, can babies watch TV? The short answer is no. Experts agree that babies should not have screen time until after 24 months of age.

Alternatives to Toddler Screen Time

If screens are off the table, don’t worry—there are plenty of healthy ways to keep your baby happy and entertained:

  • Limit “captive” time to an hour or less. The WHO recommends that babies under 2 years old shouldn’t be kept in strollers, high chairs, or carriers for more than 60 minutes at a stretch. Kids 3 and 4 also need free-range time after sitting still.
  • Try the airplane trick. Parents who travel with babies swear by this: pack both familiar toys and a few brand-new items for novelty. Even a simple toy picked up at the pharmacy can keep your baby fascinated.
  • Stick to a schedule. If you’re introducing something new into your baby’s day—like dining out—keep the rest of their routine consistent. Feedings, naps, and tummy time should stay on track to provide comfort and predictability.
  • Streamline your activity. Know your baby’s limits. Some parents time outings around a small snack—when the food is gone, it’s time to wrap things up. That way, you avoid meltdowns and can leave before things get stressful.

What Was Just Learned—and Why It Matters

So, can babies watch TV? Current pediatric research and official guidelines strongly suggest waiting until after age 2 before introducing any screens. Why? Because screen exposure in the first two years of life has been linked to developmental delays, especially in communication and problem-solving. More importantly, babies thrive on real-world interaction, routines, and sensory experiences that screens simply can’t replace. By holding off on TV and offering engaging alternatives, parents give their children a healthier start and set the stage for stronger growth, bonding, and learning.