Screens are everywhere, and it’s easy for babies to spend more time watching educational videos than playing. However, too much screen time can affect their growth and focus.
You don’t have to ban screens completely, but as parents, building healthy habits early helps babies grow curious, creative, and connected.
Is It Really Possible to Avoid Screen Time?
In today’s tech-filled world, it’s hard to avoid screens. Short, age-appropriate videos with a parent can be fine for toddlers, but as Dr. Joanne Filart shared at Baby Company’s Mom & Baby Bootcamp, what matters most is how and when babies see screens.
Limiting screen time for toddlers and focusing on real play helps babies build skills that screens can’t teach.
Playing with learning toys is how babies learn how to move their bodies, explore how things work, and start to understand speech and social cues. With every giggle and interaction, they're building essential skills for their brain that no app or TV show can teach them.
Playtime also strengthens the bond between parents and babies. Unlike screens, baby play is active, engaging, and full of real connection.
Read more: Unlock Fun & Learning with Educational Toys for Newborns, Infants, & Toddlers
Helpful Tips to Reduce Baby’s Screen Time
Creating screen-free habits for your baby doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some easy ways to reduce screen time for toddlers:
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Set up screen-free areas or times: Pick areas in your house, like a nursery or playroom, where screens aren't allowed. Also, keep mealtimes and bedtime routines screen-free, too.
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Encourage solo play with simple baby toys: Offer educational baby toys that let babies explore textures, colors, and sounds at their own pace. Independent play boosts confidence and creativity.
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Swap screens for music and books: Read aloud, sing songs, or talk about daily activities. These activities help babies build language and imagination skills.
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Go outside: Fresh air, new sights, and natural textures offer sensory experiences no screen can match.
Best Alternatives to Screen Time: Baby Learning Toys
Instead of handing your baby a phone or tablet, fill your home with toys that spark curiosity and engage the senses. These help babies learn through touch, sound, and movement.
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Baby sensory toys develop hand coordination and stimulate touch, sight, and hearing.
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Musical toys for babies teach rhythm, movement, and listening skills.
Chicco Funky the Piano Orchestra Baby Toy
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Soft books encourage early reading and sensory play.
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Play mats promote tummy time and movement.
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Baby smartphones offer pretend play without real screens or distractions.
At Baby Company, you’ll find a wide selection of kids’ learning toys designed to help your baby grow, explore, and have fun—no screens needed.
How to Choose Toys for Babies
Not every toy is right for your baby. Here’s what to keep in mind when shopping for developmental toys for babies:
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Match the toy to your baby’s age and skills: Choose toys that are developmentally appropriate so they stay interesting and challenging.
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Choose safe, simple toys that promote learning: Go for items that encourage hands-on play and problem-solving without overwhelming your child.
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Avoid overstimulating toys: Flashing lights and loud sounds can be too much for young babies. Pick calming, engaging toys that inspire curiosity.
In a world full of digital distractions, it’s still possible to raise screen-smart babies. By introducing screen-free routines and offering meaningful alternatives like toys, music, and storytelling, parents can support healthy, happy development.
Play is the best way for your baby to learn. The more they move, touch, and interact, the more they discover. Choose toys and activities carefully—real learning happens away from screens.
You can find everything you need for screen-free learning at Baby Company, giving your baby the perfect start to explore the world around them. Visit the nearest Baby Company store or shop for toys for babies online.
FAQs
1. How much screen time is okay for babies?
Experts say babies under 18 months should avoid screen time, except for video calls with family. Real-life play and bonding are best for their growth.
2. Can educational videos help my baby learn?
Not really. Even if videos look educational, babies learn more by touching, moving, and interacting with people. Play and connection help them understand the world better than any screen can.
3. What are the signs of too much screen time?
If your baby is cranky, has trouble sleeping, or seems less interested in playing, it might be a sign they’re spending too much time with screens.
4. How can I keep my baby busy without screens?
Let them explore toys with different textures and sounds, read simple books together, sing songs, or spend time outdoors. Real-world play keeps them active and curious.
5. Where can I find screen-free toys?
You can find many screen-free learning toys at Baby Company. They offer sensory, musical, and educational toys that keep your baby entertained and learning—no screens needed.