What guideline is suggested regarding screen time for infants under 18 months?

The guideline suggesting that screen time should be avoided for infants under 18 months, except for video chatting, is rooted in the understanding of early childhood development. Infants learn best through direct, interactive experiences with caregivers and their environment. Excessive screen time can hinder this crucial developmental phase by limiting opportunities for active engagement and social interaction, which are vital for cognitive and social growth.

Video chatting, however, is considered an exception because it facilitates meaningful interactions with family and friends, supporting social bonding and communication skills without the negative effects associated with passive screen time. The emphasis is on promoting interpersonal connections rather than passive consumption of media during these formative months.

This approach is informed by recommendations from various health organizations, which highlight the importance of face-to-face interactions for developing essential skills in young children, thus reinforcing the appropriateness of restricting screen time in this age group while allowing for meaningful digital engagement through video calls.