Promoting Healthy Digital Media Habits through Early Childhood Home Visiting

Children under five average two hours of daily screen time — exceeding current guidance across every age group. In this brief, JBA researchers analyze data from over 680 families enrolled in Early Head Start home visiting programs to examine daily digital media use, how families use it (shared viewing, keeping children busy, screen time before naps or bed), and how patterns vary by child age, race/ethnicity, temperament, and maternal characteristics.

The brief translates findings into actionable guidance for home visiting programs, including recommendations for embedding media guidance into program design, building home visitor confidence to discuss the topic with families, and using digital touchpoints to extend program reach between visits.

This brief is the first in a planned series. Upcoming products will examine the extent to which home visiting programs are currently addressing healthy digital media habits with families, and the training, tools, and supports home visitors need to do this work effectively.