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How much screen time for a 7 year old in Australia?
Up to 2 hours a day
Australia's guidelines say children aged 5 to 13 should have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time a day. Homework doesn't count towards the 2 hours.
Make a plan that fits your family
The guideline is a ceiling, not a target. Our free planner starts with your family's values, then works out a daily allowance for each child, with agreements you can print.
Make our family screen plan →Built by a registered psychologist with 20 years in child and family services. General information, not clinical advice.
What helps at this age
- Agree when screens happen, such as after homework and outdoor play, not just how long.
- Watch out for in-app purchases and chat in games.
- Screens off at least an hour before bed.
- Give choices within limits, like which show or game, to build independence.
Common questions
What about gaming with friends online?
Look for games with chat turned off or limited to friends you know. Play the game yourself once so you know what it involves.
Does reading on a tablet count?
Reading an e-book is closer to reading a book than to watching videos. Many families count it separately, but keep it out of bed time.
How do I stop the daily arguments?
Agree the rules once, write them down and stick to them. A visible timer and a clear end routine cut most of the negotiating.
Source: Australian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines, Australian Government. Last checked 22 October 2026.