Screen Time and Spanish Language Content

Question: I am a pediatrician in Seattle, Washington and most of my patients are Spanish speaking. Many also live under the federal poverty line. Because of challenges these families face, I often encounter situations in the clinic where even children under 2 are routinely exposed to screens since reliable hands-on childcare is not always possible. Do you have any guidance I can share with these families about how to find higher quality content for Spanish language shows or apps, and also how to help them balance screen time with other activities when possible?

Answer: It’s important to think about the reasons why families might use media to keep children occupied. In low-income Hispanic families, as well as other underrepresented communities, households are more likely to be multigenerational and caregivers may have more than one job or may have physical limitations to play. This is a great opportunity to meet families where they are and provide educational content and alternatives rather than “all or nothing” solutions that may not be effective.  

You can help families find ways to 1) ensure the content is positive and educational, and 2) try to find replacement activities that are realistic and enjoyable for the family to do together. 

For educational Spanish-language programs, our experts recommend: 

• Llama llama
• Dora la explorada
• Octonauts
• Daniel Tigre
• Plaza Sesamo
• Maya and Miguel
• Waffles y Mochi
• Pregunta a los StoryBots
• Spanish-language YouTube channels:
  • Cocomelon: ¡A Cantar
  • YooHoo al Rescate
  • Go Noodle 

Encourage media that allows caregivers and young children to play and connect. For example, "Go Noodles" or "video karaoke" could help build connection through songs or dancing. Watching a cooking show or nature show could give caregivers ideas of what to play after the show is done. In other words, encourage caregivers to be as present as possible with media interaction, and use media as a path for learning.  

Many of the shows listed above are available on YouTube and YouTube Kids. When watching YouTube, we encourage that younger children only watch “made for kids” shows so that content for older viewers is not recommended via YouTube’s algorithm. Some families create playlists of their favorite songs or shows. 

Spanish Language Resources for Families:  

• Common Sense Media has a Spanish language library of movies and shows with quality ratings and reviews. 
• Family Tip Sheet – Building Healthy Digital Habits: Tips from the AAP Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health (in Spanish) 

Additional Resources: 

If you would like to learn more about general guidance surrounding screen time, young children, and quality content, please see our previous portal responses: 

• Screen Time Limits for Young Children  
• Preferred Method of Screen Time/Selecting shows and games for Toddlers 
• Preschooler Obsessed with Tablet: How to Encourage Play 

Age: 0-8, early childhood 

Topics: Spanish, Program Recommendations, parenting 

Role: Pediatrician