Recent conversations about the way digital devices appear in children’s stories have brought screen time back into focus for many families. As technology becomes a more visible part of both play and modern storytelling, it’s completely natural for parents to wonder what healthy, age-appropriate screen use should look like for nursery-age children.
Emily Burgess, Director of Early Years at Family First Nurseries, one of the UK’s leading nursery groups with over 90 settings dedicated to delivering exceptional early years education and care, has shared expert guidance to help families feel confident, informed, and supported when navigating screen time with young children.
Why healthy screen time matters for nursery-age children
Emily explains the importance of balance, structure and quality for early learning:
“Screens are a normal part of modern life, but young children still learn best through hands-on play, movement, and social interaction. Guidance suggests limiting screen time for under-fives to around 60 minutes per day, and focusing on short, meaningful sessions rather than long periods of passive viewing. When used thoughtfully, screens can support learning; however, they should sit alongside, not replace, real-world experiences.”
What ‘quality screen time’ actually looks like
Emily emphasises that not all screen use is equal, and the benefits depend on how screens are used:
“High-quality content is calm, simple, and designed specifically for early years. Educational apps, story-based programmes, and short videos that encourage thinking, answering questions or naming objects offer more developmental value than fast-paced or overstimulating content. The goal is always to support language, curiosity and connection.”
The importance of co-viewing, screens as a shared experience
She explains why watching together matters:
“Young children understand far more when an adult is nearby. Co-viewing, even quietly, helps them make sense of what they’re seeing. Talking about characters, pausing to explain something, or linking the story to real life all deepen learning. Children gain more language, more emotional understanding and more confidence when screens are used alongside an engaged adult. Additionally, parents can view content before sharing it with their child or children to make sure it’s appropriate and aligned with their family values. This protects kids from overstimulating or inappropriate language, but also allows parents to anticipate questions and highlight learning opportunities, and generally make the viewing experience more interactive.
How nurseries model balanced screen habits
Emily highlights that early years settings take a structured, developmental approach:
“In nurseries, screens are used sparingly and with purpose, for storytelling, early phonics, or as part of a guided activity. The EYFS Statutory Framework encourages settings to prioritise active learning, communication, and physical development, so screen use should always support a wider learning goal. Children are guided gently, with consistent routines that help them understand when screens are helpful and when it’s time to switch off.”
Practical advice for parents — simple routines that make screen time healthier
She offers clear, supportive tips families can use at home:
“To help families feel confident, a few gentle principles can make a meaningful difference:”
- Short bursts work best: Use screens in short 10–15-minute sessions, with breaks for play, movement, or fresh air.
- Choose calm, age-appropriate content: Favour programmes or apps designed for early, go for simple and slow-paced shows that are rich in language.
- Watch together whenever possible: Even brief co-viewing helps children ask questions, build vocabulary and understand emotions.
- Protect sleep and routines: Avoid screens in the hour before bedtime to help children wind down and settle more easily.
- Create screen-free zones: Keeping mealtimes, bedtimes and play spaces tech-free supports communication and calmer routines.
- Model the habits you want to see: Children copy adult behaviour. Putting your own phone aside during shared moments teaches healthy habits naturally.
Understanding when screens may need to be limited
Emily explains how parents can recognise when screen use might need adjusting:
“If a child becomes irritable when a device is removed, loses interest in play, or shows signs of tiredness after long periods of viewing, these can be cues to reduce screen time. It doesn’t need to be a cause for worry; simply shifting to shorter sessions, calmer content, and more co-viewing can quickly restore balance.”
She also highlights that some children may need extra consideration:
“For children with speech delays, sensory sensitivities or specific health needs, screens can be both helpful and overwhelming. In these situations, short, structured sessions and co-viewing become even more important. Simple adjustments — such as choosing calmer, slower-paced content or reducing background noise and brightness — can make screen time feel much more manageable. Parents may find it useful to speak with nursery staff or relevant health professionals if they need tailored guidance, as even small changes can make a significant difference.”
A reassuring approach for families
“Screen time does not need to be a source of pressure or guilt. With gentle boundaries, thoughtful choices and shared experiences, screens can play a positive role in children’s lives without overwhelming the rich, real-world learning that matters most. What’s most important is balance, ensuring little ones still have plenty of time to play, imagine, explore and connect.”
Author: Family First Nurseries