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07 October

7 Ways Screen Time Is Hurting Your Child’s Health (And How to Fix It)

7 Ways Screen Time Is Hurting Your Child’s Health (And How to Fix It)
author TopDust Staff
Sponsored |

07 October

Did you know that children today are spending more time in front of screens than ever before? Surveys show that even preschoolers average two to four hours of daily screen exposure, while older children and teens may reach seven or more hours (Common Sense Media, 2020; AACAP, 2025). With devices becoming more ingrained in everyday life, screen time has skyrocketed for children and adolescents.

As much as these devices offer convenience and entertainment, the excessive exposure raises significant concerns about their impact on children’s health and development. 

From sleep disorders to obesity, the effects of too much screen time are real—and potentially harmful. 

In this FAQ, we’ll dive into the risks associated with prolonged screen time and explore solutions, like the Toniebox 2, which can help reduce screen time while keeping kids entertained. 

1. How much screen time is too much for children?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends limiting screen time to one hour per day of high-quality programming for children aged 2–5, and consistent limits for older children (AAP, 2016). However, studies show many children exceed these guidelines, with preschoolers already averaging multiple hours of screen time daily (Common Sense Media, 2020).

2. How does screen time impact a child’s physical health?

Excessive screen time can contribute to a range of physical health issues:

3. How does screen time affect a child’s sleep?

Exposure to screens before bed disrupts melatonin production and delays sleep onset, leading to poorer sleep quality. Over time, sleep disorders caused by excessive screen use can affect a child’s mood, cognitive development, and overall health (Hale et al., 2018; AAP, 2017; CDC, 2025).

4. Does screen time affect a child’s development?

Yes. Fast-paced digital content can overstimulate the brain’s reward pathways, affecting attention spans and making it harder for children to focus. Research also shows that children who spend more time on screens may have greater difficulty with peer relationships, emotional regulation, and imaginative play (AAP, 2016).

5. Can too much screen time cause stress in children?

Absolutely. Prolonged screen exposure has been associated with higher stress and anxiety in children, potentially linked to disrupted sleep (CDC, 2025).

6. Is there a way to reduce screen time while still providing entertainment for children?

Yes! The Toniebox 2 is an excellent way to cut back on screen time while still giving kids engaging, educational fun. Soft, squishy, and portable, it’s built for little hands and tough enough for everyday play. Simply place a Tonie on top, and the box comes to life with stories, songs, or educational adventures.

The Toniebox 2 works with Tonieplay, a hands-on disc that lets kids choose their own story paths, play games, and explore with ease. These interactive stories boost imagination, memory, and independent thinking with fun, screen-free experiences. Its simple controls and smart Light Ring display everything from battery life to Wi-Fi status, and even flag when something’s off. 

At night, it doubles as a calming sleep companion with a built-in nightlight and sleep timer, creating a soft, dimmable glow perfect for bedtime. In the morning, the gentle sunrise alarm gradually brightens to ease kids into their day—no jarring sounds, just a smooth start.

They offer a wide range of content, from stories and songs to educational material, all in a creative, hands-on format. By providing screen-free entertainment, Tonies helps foster learning and imagination, offering a fun and safe alternative to traditional screens.

7. Do children actually enjoy the Toniebox 2?

Kids love it! Parents find it a lasting treasure that grows with their children. For fresh stories, simply swap out Tonies. For older kids, interactive discs and controllers add new layers of play and learning.

Conclusion

While screens have become integral to modern life, it’s important to recognise the risks of excessive screen time. By setting limits and incorporating alternatives— like the Toniebox 2 —you can help your child grow in a healthier, more balanced environment.

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