When Can Babies Watch Sensory Videos?

Babies and Screen Time

In today’s digital age, it’s not uncommon for babies to be exposed to screens almost from birth. However, many parents wonder when it’s safe to introduce sensory videos to their baby.

The American Academy of Pediatrics Guidelines

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children under the age of 18 months avoid all screen time, except for video chatting with family and friends. For children between 18 and 24 months, the AAP suggests introducing high-quality educational programming with parental supervision.

What Are Sensory Videos?

Sensory videos are videos designed to stimulate a baby’s senses, such as sight, sound, and touch. They often feature bright colors, movement, and music.

Why Are Sensory Videos Popular?

Sensory videos have become increasingly popular in recent years, as parents look for ways to entertain and stimulate their babies. Many parents find sensory videos to be a useful tool for calming fussy babies or providing a distraction during diaper changes or feeding time.

Can Sensory Videos Help with Development?

While some parents swear by sensory videos, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that they have any long-term benefits for a baby’s development. In fact, some experts argue that excessive screen time can actually be detrimental to a child’s development.

When Can Babies Safely Watch Sensory Videos?

While the AAP recommends avoiding all screen time for children under 18 months, some parents choose to introduce sensory videos earlier. Ultimately, the decision is up to the parents, but it’s important to keep in mind the potential risks of excessive screen time.

What Are the Risks of Excessive Screen Time?

Excessive screen time has been linked to a variety of negative outcomes, including delayed language development, poor sleep, and behavioral problems. Additionally, babies who spend too much time in front of screens may have difficulty with social interaction and may struggle with attention and learning later in life.

Tips for Introducing Sensory Videos

If you decide to introduce sensory videos to your baby, there are a few things you can do to minimize the potential risks:

1. Limit Screen Time

The AAP recommends that children between 18 and 24 months have no more than 1 hour of screen time per day. For children over 2 years old, the recommendation is no more than 2 hours per day.

2. Choose High-Quality Programming

Look for sensory videos that are designed specifically for babies and are age-appropriate. Avoid videos with flashing or overly stimulating images, as these can be overwhelming for a baby’s developing brain.

3. Watch with Your Baby

Watching sensory videos with your baby can be a bonding experience, and it allows you to provide context and interaction. Ask your baby questions and encourage them to respond to what they see and hear.

4. Use Sensory Videos as a Supplement

Sensory videos should never be a substitute for real-world experiences, such as playing with toys, interacting with other people, and exploring the world around them. Use sensory videos as a supplement to these experiences, rather than a replacement.

The Bottom Line

While sensory videos can be a useful tool for entertaining and calming your baby, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks of excessive screen time. Follow the AAP’s guidelines, choose high-quality programming, and use sensory videos as a supplement to real-world experiences. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your baby’s screen time is both safe and beneficial.