The AAP's latest policy statement, "Digital Ecosystems, Children, and Adolescents," shifts the focus from simple screen time limits to the entire digital environment surrounding kids - including the way platforms are designed, how content and algorithms influence behavior, and how media fits into family life. This guidance emphasizes that most digital platforms are engineered to maximize engagement and not childhood well-being, and can affect sleep, learning, mood, and healthy habits.

As clinicians, we can use the 5 Cs: Child, Content, Calm, Crowding out, Communication, as a way to integrate media guidance into existing conversations.

• CHILD: Connect media use to the child's specific personality or diagnosis (e.g., ADHD, anxiety). Identify if media triggers negative behaviors or supports unique talents.
• CONTENT: Focus on quality over quantity. Encourage families to swap violent or unrealistic content for high-quality alternatives, using resources like Common Sense Media.
• CALM: Address media as a coping mechanism. If a child relies solely on screens to regulate emotions or sleep, suggest alternative ways to soothe the brain and body.
• CROWDING OUT: Shift the focus from "screen time hours" to what media is replacing. Help families reclaim time for sleep, outdoors, and face-to-face connection by being intentional.
• COMMUNICATION: Promote frequent, low-stress tech talks. Open dialogue helps build digital literacy and allows parents to spot struggles early without judgment.

Want more information and tips? Read the full report and policy statement here.