Free screen time timer for children and families. Set daily limits of 1–3 hours with alarm. Reduces screen time arguments with a fair, objective countdown.
American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines: under 18 months — none (except video calls). Ages 2–5: under 1 hour/day high-quality content. Ages 6+: consistent limits, prioritizing sleep and physical activity. Most experts recommend 1–2 hours/day for school-age children during weekdays.
Children accept limits from neutral sources (a timer, a clock) more readily than from parents because they can't argue with an object. When the timer ends, say "the timer says it's done" rather than "I say it's done." This removes parental authority from the decision, reducing conflict.
Yes — having the child start the timer builds responsibility and ownership. They're more likely to accept the limit they triggered themselves. Let older children (7+) choose between two pre-agreed limits (30 or 60 minutes). This teaches time awareness and self-regulation.
Have a "what comes next" plan ready before screens go on: outdoor play, a specific craft, reading time, or a snack. The transition is harder when there's nothing planned for afterward. The screen time timer also signals what to do next, not just what to stop.
Start one shared timer for all children watching together. Each child's individual screen time (tablets, phones) gets their own timer. Be consistent — different rules for different children based on age are fine, but follow through on agreed-upon limits for each child every time.