While we don’t actually recommend it, the reality is that sometimes parents truly need a break.

In those cases, the AAP suggests that children between 18 months and two years should only view high-quality programs with the active engagement of an adult.

Children between the ages of two and five should have no more than one hour per day of monitored screen time.

For children six years and older, it’s vital to set consistent regulations and then enforce them.

Bear in mind that interactive screen time, such as video chatting with grandma for 30 minutes, is different from sitting still and watching a half-hour television show.

And educational apps such as math games are different from watching funny cat videos.

Whatever you decide, it’s essential to set clear and strict limits as a family.

You don’t want your child to shop for their preferred answer from other adults in the house.

A reasonable example of a fixed limit for children over the age of six includes one hour of screen time after chores and before bed.

When taking the occasional trip on an airplane or in a train, using an iPad as a quiet diversion is a legitimate compromise.

In general, remember that every minute of screen time is a minute not engaged in another meaningful activity, whether it’s physical or creative play, reading or social interaction.