In today’s world, screens are everywhere, TVs, tablets, phones, and game consoles are part of everyday life. And while technology can offer fun and learning opportunities, too much of it can affect how children grow, connect with others, and even how families spend time together.
At our school, we believe that young children don’t need screens to learn or thrive. In fact, we’ve seen the incredible benefits of a screen-free early childhood education, where curiosity, imagination, and human connection take the lead. Our approach is rooted in real-world, hands-on experiences, rather than digital ones.
Learning Through Play: Our Screen-Free Early Years Approach
In the Early Years, children learn best by doing, messy play, forest adventures, exploring the school garden, caring for animals, and building friendships through play. It’s hands-on, it’s joyful, and it’s how children truly make sense of the world around them.
As they grow into the Primary Years, we carry that same spirit forward with a personalised and immersive curriculum. Each child follows their own path, supported by educators who understand that real learning happens through meaningful, lived experiences.
That’s not to say technology isn’t important, it absolutely is. Digital literacy is essential for children to thrive in today’s world. That’s why, as children progress through the school, we introduce technology thoughtfully and gradually, in age-appropriate ways.
Creating Balance: A Partnership with Families
We’re not against technology, but we believe that during the formative years, screens shouldn’t take centre stage. At school, we focus on rich, real-world activities and we work closely with families to help find a healthy balance at home.
Through ongoing communication, family events at school, and gentle home projects, we encourage less screen time, more outdoor play, and plenty of opportunities for creativity, connection, and movement. Our community approach means children are supported both at school and at home in developing habits that nurture their emotional, social, and cognitive well-being.
What is Screen Time Exactly?
Screen time includes any use of devices with screens: TVs, smartphones, tablets, computers, even when a TV is on in the background.
Why Does Screen Time Matter?
Though screens can be used for learning, excessive exposure has been linked to:
- Reduced attention span and concentration.
- Delayed language development.
- Increased anxiety and emotional outbursts.
- Sleep disturbances.
- Lower academic performance.
- Difficulties in social interaction and interpreting cues.
Not all screen time is harmful, high-quality, interactive, and co-viewed content can foster learning. But the key is intentional use and balance.
Let’s Talk About Boredom (Yes, It’s a Good Thing!)
However, boredom plays a vital role in child development. When we allow children to experience boredom, we open doors to transformative opportunities. It promotes creativity, self-reflection, and problem-solving skills. Often, screens are used to avoid boredom. But boredom is a vital part of child development. It promotes:
- Creativity and imagination
- Self-reflection and resilience
- Emotional regulation and frustration tolerance
- Problem-solving and innovation
Guidelines for Healthy Screen Time
To support healthy development, we recommend the following:
- Under 3 years: Avoid screens if possible. However, limit to 30 mins/day, supervised by an adult.
- Ages 4–6: Limit to 30 mins/day. Watch together and discuss content.
- Ages 7–11: Max 1 hour/day. Maintain balance with outdoor play, sleep, schoolwork.
- Ages 12–15: Up to 2 hours/day. Encourage offline time and real-life experiences.
- Age 16+: Introduce social media thoughtfully, respecting maturity and regulations.
How to Build Healthy Digital Habits at Home
- Set Clear Limits: Turn off screens at least 1 hour before bedtime.
- Screen-Free Zones: Keep meals, bedrooms, and family time device-free.
- Quality Over Quantity: Choose interactive, age-appropriate content.
- Co-View and Talk: Watch together and encourage discussion.
- Get Outdoors: Aim for at least 1 hour of active play daily.
- Limit Background TV: Constant noise disrupts language and attention.
Red Flags: When Screen Time Might Be Too Much
If you notice these behaviours, it may be time to reassess screen habits:
- Preferring screens over social play.
- Anxiety or meltdowns when away from screens.
- Difficulty making eye contact or joining conversations.
- Emotional outbursts when screen time ends.
- Disinterest in real-world activities
Practical Tips for Families
- Plan ahead: “We’ll watch one show after lunch, then turn it off.”
- Choose calm, educational content.
- Model healthy screen habits.
- Stick to a calming bedtime routine, screens off an hour before sleep.
Great Screen Alternatives: Books & Shows We Love
- Bluey
- Daniel Tiger
- Curious George
- Kipper
- Trash Truck
- Sarah & Duck
- Nat Geo Kids
- Stella and Sam
- Llama Llama
- Aqui Há Gato
- Guess How Much I Love You
Books That Encourage Conversation & Reflection:
- “Uma Família Desligada” – Amélie Javaux
- “Que Planeta é Este?” – Eduarda Lima
- “It’s a Book” – Lane Smith
At Our School: A Community Effort
We proudly offer a screen-free environment during the school day, filled with sensory exploration, storytelling, art, outdoor play, music, and connection.
We understand each family’s context is different. That’s why we work in partnership with families, sharing practical strategies for managing screen use and supporting children’s overall development.
Together, we help children build a healthy, balanced relationship with technology, one that grows with them, instead of rushing them.
Let’s Watch Less and Play More
At Almada International School, we believe in prioritising play, creativity, and connection. We believe that we are passing on the right values to our children, who are always curious and confident and very present in the real world.
