Screen Time vs. Play Time: Why Kids Need More Unplugged Moments
Screens are everywhere—tablets, phones, streaming video, apps—and for busy families they’re convenient. But when screen time crowds out play, kids can miss the very experiences that build attention, emotional regulation, creativity, and social skills.
What the research says about screens
Pediatric and public-health research shows that heavy or early screen exposure is associated with poorer developmental performance on language, problem-solving, and attention measures. Longitudinal studies have found links between higher screen use in early childhood and lower scores on developmental screeners at ages 2–5. PMC
Other JAMA Pediatrics work suggests removing screens before bedtime improves toddlers’ sleep and attention—showing how even small changes in routines can yield measurable benefits. JAMA Network
Because of these and related findings, pediatric guidance recommends intentional limits and family media plans: screens shouldn’t replace interactive, real-world play and caregiver interaction during critical early years. AAP
Why play matters (and what kids lose to overuse of screens)
Play is not just “fun”—it’s the brain’s worktime. Play helps children:
Practice attention and problem-solving.
Learn emotional regulation (managing big feelings).
Build social skills and empathy through role play.
Develop creativity and flexible thinking.
The American Academy of Pediatrics highlights the “Power of Play” as central to healthy brain and social-emotional development and encourages pediatricians and parents to prioritize play in early childhood. AAP Publications
How Child-Centered Play Therapy restores what screens can erode
Screens can provide fast, passive stimulation. Play is active, messy, and relational. Child-Centered Play Therapy gives kids a safe, adult-led space to:
Practice calming and focusing,
Try, fail, and try again (building resilience),
Name and process feelings through symbolic play,
Relearn social interaction skills that translate into the classroom and home.
There’s a growing evidence base showing play therapy’s effectiveness for children with behavioral, emotional, and developmental needs—making play an important part of clinical and developmental recovery. Evidence Based Child Therapy
Practical tips for families
You don’t have to eliminate all screens tomorrow. Try doable shifts that protect play and connection:
Create “unplugged” windows: set specific daily blocks for device-free play (even 30–60 minutes helps).
Bedtime buffer: remove screens at least 60 minutes before sleep when possible. JAMA Network
Make play visible: keep accessible toys out in common areas (blocks, art supplies, dress-up).
Co-play: join your child sometimes—your presence amplifies the developmental value of play. AAP Publications
Family media plan: decide together when, where, and what types of media are allowed. Pediatric guidance supports family media planning rather than one-size limits. AAP
Bottom line
Technology isn’t going away—but play is irreplaceable. When screen time starts crowding out real-world interaction, attention, creativity, and emotional skills can take a hit. Prioritizing unplugged, child-led play (and bringing therapy into the mix when needed) helps children recover developmental ground and thrive.
If you’re in Rancho Cucamonga, Upland, Claremont, or nearby and concerned about your child’s screen use, attention, or emotional regulation, Head & Heart Family Therapy offers Child-Centered Play Therapy to help restore balance and build the skills kids need to succeed.
Sources
AAP policy statement, Media and Young Minds (Pediatrics). AAP Publications
AAP: “Power of Play in Early Childhood.” AAP Publications
JAMA Pediatrics — longitudinal studies: screen time and developmental outcomes. PMC+1
JAMA Pediatrics — toddler screen removal study (sleep & attention). JAMA Network
EvidenceBasedChildTherapy / play therapy outcome research. Evidence Based Child Therapy
