Computer, tablet, smartphone, TV or game console. Screens are now a natural part of children's lives – they use them to learn, have fun, communicate with friends and, of course, play games.

One of the most popular is Fortnite, which has gained millions of young fans around the world over the years.

But how much screen time is still okay? And when is it time to put down the computer or phone and head outside?

It's Not Just About the Number of Hours

You may have come across the simple rule that children should spend no more than two hours a day in front of a screen. Current recommendations, however, take a more nuanced approach.

In its latest recommendations, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) points out that for school-age children, the number of minutes spent in front of a screen is not the only thing that matters. Parents should also pay attention to the quality of the content, how digital media are being used and, above all, what screen time is replacing in a child's everyday life.

In other words, there is a difference between a child spending an hour creating something, playing a strategy game or talking to friends and spending the same amount of time mindlessly jumping from one short video to another.

So How Much Screen Time Is “Just Right”?

There are relatively specific recommendations for younger children. For example, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends no more than one hour of sedentary screen time per day for children aged 2 to 4 – and says that less is better.

As children get older, however, a simple time limit is no longer enough. For school-age children, it is more important to set rules that prevent digital entertainment from interfering with other essential parts of the day.

Every day, children should have enough time for:

• quality sleep,
• physical activity and time outdoors,
• school and homework,
• family and friends,
• reading, creative activities and other interests,
• as well as simply being bored and relaxing without a screen.

If all of these comfortably fit into a child's day, there is no need to monitor every minute with a phone in hand.

The 5 Cs: A Simple Guide for Parents

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents think about digital media using the 5 Cs:

• Child: Every child is different. Pay attention to how your child responds to games, videos and other digital content.
• Content: Not all screen time is the same. Take an interest in what your child watches or plays and whether the content is appropriate for their age.
• Calm: A phone or game should not be the only way to deal with boredom, cope with difficult emotions or fall asleep.
• Crowding Out: Does your child still have enough time for sleep, physical activity, school, friends and other activities?
• Communication: Talk to your children about what they do in the digital world, what they enjoy and who they interact with there.

Gaming Is Not the Same as Endless Scrolling

When setting rules, it is also useful to distinguish between different types of digital entertainment. Video games can require concentration, strategic thinking, quick decision-making and cooperation with other players. Of course, that does not mean children should spend the entire afternoon gaming.

Instead of arguing about “Just five more minutes!” every day, a simple family agreement can help. For example: responsibilities and physical activity first, gaming afterwards. It is best to set the rules in advance and adapt them to the child's age and the family's daily routine.

For school-age children, the AAP recommends creating these rules together. At this age, children are already able to understand why the rules matter and take part in following them.

Screens Don't Belong Everywhere

It is also worth creating screen-free times and places. These might include family meals, trips together or the time before bed.

In the evening, it is a good idea to put devices away and give the brain time to wind down. Phones, tablets and game consoles should not prevent children from getting the sleep they need.

And, of course, the rules do not apply only to children. If we adults check our phones every few minutes during dinner, we can hardly expect children to behave differently.

From Fortnite Back to the Real World

The digital and real worlds do not have to be opposites. Popular games, films and characters have long made their way into children's fashion, school supplies and games with friends.

And that is exactly how Fortnite can continue offline once the screen is switched off. A favourite gaming world can accompany children on their way to school, sports practice or a visit to friends.

The new licensed BAAGL Fortnite collection brings motifs from one of today's most popular games from screens and consoles to school backpacks and accessories. Because even the biggest gamers sometimes have to save the game, throw on their backpack and head out for an adventure in the real world.