Balancing Screen Time in Early Childhood

In today’s digital age, screens are an inevitable part of everyday life, but when it comes to young children, it is essential to strike the right balance.

At KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse, we are committed to ensuring that screen time is integrated purposefully within our curriculum while prioritising hands-on learning, social interactions, and overall well-being.

Why Screen Time Management Matters

Excessive screen exposure can impact children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. While technology can be a valuable educational tool, it must be used with intention and moderation. Our approach ensures that screen use complements—rather than replaces—meaningful learning experiences in the classroom.

KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse’s Screen Time Guidelines

At KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse, we have established clear screen time guidelines to foster healthy developmental habits among our young learners.

These include:

1. No Screens for Infants

Infants under 18 months are not exposed to screens to support their focus on sensory exploration, face-to-face interactions, and motor skills development.

2. Purposeful and Educational Use Only

Screens are strictly used for educational purposes, such as introducing concepts or visual storytelling. Screen exposure is limited to short, structured segments of 3 to 5 minutes, and handheld devices like phones and tablets are not utilised.

3. Interactive and Engaging Learning Experiences

Passive screen time is avoided. Instead, digital content is used to encourage active participation, with educators facilitating discussions around short educational clips or snippets from documentaries.

4. Balanced Learning Approach

Technology is seamlessly integrated alongside hands-on activities, outdoor play, and social learning to create a holistic and well-rounded educational experience.

5. Educator-Guided and Supervised Use

Screens are never used unsupervised. Educators guide children through content that aligns with their developmental needs and learning objectives.

6. Screen-Free Mealtimes and Rest Periods

To encourage mindfulness and personal connections, screens are not used during meals or pre-nap routines, allowing children to focus on nutrition, rest, and meaningful interactions.

kiddiwinkie schoolhouse screen time guidelines

Creating a Healthy Digital Culture

As part of our philosophy at KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse, we believe in promoting a healthy relationship with technology. By setting thoughtful boundaries and incorporating digital tools meaningfully, we empower children to develop essential skills while maintaining a well-balanced learning environment.

Want to learn more about screen time management for young children? 

Check out these insightful articles as our Head of Curriculum shares our approach with the media:

Channel News Asia: Screen time guidelines for children

The Straits Times: Concerned about your children getting too much screen time? Here’s how to dial back

The Straits Times: Weaning children off screens – Struggling working parents say they need help, not more rules

At KiddiWinkie Schoolhouse, we remain dedicated to providing a nurturing environment where children can explore, engage, and grow—both on and off-screen.
 

Interested to learn more about our programmes and curriculum?

Book a tour of your preferred centre to see our learning environment and facilities first-hand.

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