Children under ÿve should be physically active for at least 60 minutes a day to keep their bodies ÿt and healthy. It builds their bodies, minds and self-esteem.

Unfortunately, children are not being as active as they should. They are spending too much time using screen technology: tablets, smartphones, computers, handheld video games, and of course, TV. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting children’s total screen time to no more than 1 to 2 hours per day. For children younger than 2, no screen time at all.

Here are some tips to help you limit screen time:

  1. Be a role model! Limit your screen time, too.
  2. Do not allow a TV or computer in your child’s room. 
  3. Turn o˜ any screens during meal time or quality time. 
  4. If your child is already “hooked on screens,” try reducing the number of hours of screen time slowly over a period of time. 
  5. Keep track of time to limit the use of screen technology. 
  6. Help your children make a list of fun activities that do not require the use of a screen. 
  7. Have the children pick an activity from the list when their screen time is used up. 
  8. Encourage them to go outside and play, ride a bike, jump rope, walk the dog, play hopscotch, or hula-hoop, etc.
Weigel, D. 2022, Eat Smart Be Active - Screen Time for Young Children: How Much is Too Much?, Extension | University of Nevada, Reno

If you need more information.

Please contact Extension's Communication Team for assistance.

 

Also of Interest:

 
An exercise class squatting together.
All Decked Out
Challenge yourself with All Decked Out! Draw a card, complete the matching exercise, and stay active as you work through the deck.
 Lindsay, A. 2026, University of Nevada, Reno Extension
Women running in a gym playing a game.
Basket Battle
A fast-paced, team-based activity where participants race against the clock to collect balls from the opposing team’s basket and return them to their own. This challenge promotes movement, focus, teamwork, and friendly competition in a fun and engaging format.
 Lindsay, A. and Heleman, N. 2026, University of Nevada, Reno Extension
A group of people playing volleyball on beach.
Beach Ball Basketball
A fun, light movement activity where participants gently toss and catch a beach ball while engaging in simple coordination and teamwork. This challenge encourages focus, connection, and low-impact physical activity in an easy, approachable way.
 Lindsay, A. and Heleman, N. 2026, University of Nevada, Reno Extension
Hands reaching up towards a balloon.
Boop the Balloon
A light, movement-based activity where participants keep a balloon in the air by gently tapping (“booping”) it without letting it touch the ground. The goal is to stay present, engage in safe physical movement, and maintain focus while working individually or together.
 Lindsay, A. and Heleman, N. 2026, University of Nevada, Reno Extension
A brain made of various healthy foods to depict brain health.
Build your Brain with Healthy Fats
Healthy fats are essential for brain health. They help build and protect brain cells, support memory and learning, and aid communication between different parts of the brain.
 Lindsay, A. and Heleman, N. 2026, University of Nevada, Reno Extension