How Much Screen Time Should a 5-Year-Old Have?

Screens are everywhere these days, and it’s totally normal to wonder how much is too much for a young kid. If you’ve got a 5-year-old at home, you’ve probably asked yourself whether watching a cartoon or playing on a tablet is doing more harm than good.

For a 5-year-old, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than 1 hour of screen time per day for entertainment purposes. That doesn’t include things like video chatting with grandparents or using a screen for school-related activities. The key here is quality and balance. A little educational show or a fun game now and then is fine, especially when you’re involved and talking with your child about what they’re seeing. But when screen time starts to replace playtime, family time, or sleep, it’s probably disturbing.

Too much screen time at this age can lead to some not-so-great effects. You might notice your child getting cranky, having trouble sleeping, or struggling to focus. Some kids even become more irritable or less interested in playing with others. Their brains are still developing, and they need lots of hands-on learning, active play, and real-life interaction to grow in healthy ways. When screens take over, those important experiences can take a back seat.

Understanding the Downsides of Screen Time and a Simple Solution

As parents, it's easy to feel stuck. On one hand, we want our kids to keep up with schoolwork and be comfortable using technology. On the other hand, screens can open the door to all kinds of distractions. Even when a child starts out writing a simple story or doing homework, it’s only a tap away from turning into video watching or game time. This constant temptation can mess with their focus and make it hard for them to stay on task, especially at such a young age when their self-control is still developing.

For older kids who need help with writing assignments, at Freewrite, we offer a safe alternative to tablets. It's a distraction-free writing tool that helps kids stay focused on writing and nothing else. Unlike laptops, tablets, or phones, the Freewrite doesn’t have games, videos, or internet browsing. Our philosophy is simple: to create tools that free users from digital distractions, helping them focus on creative writing. Parents love it because it gives kids the benefits of digital writing without the risks of digital distraction.

1. Freewrite Smart Typewriter (3rd Gen)

The Freewrite Smart Typewriter is a focused, distraction-free device designed to improve the writing experience. It features an E Ink™ display with a frontlight, making it easy to read in any lighting conditions, whether it's bright sunlight or a dim room. The full-size mechanical keyboard offers a smooth, tactile typing experience, and the durable aluminum body ensures that the device can handle daily use. With a long-lasting battery, the Smart Typewriter supports extended writing sessions. It also automatically syncs drafts to the cloud, allowing easy access from other devices, making it convenient for both adults and kids alike.

Key Advantages:

• Helps users stay focused on writing without distractions from apps or notifications

• Built with a durable design that can withstand everyday use

• The E Ink™ screen is easy on the eyes and works well in all lighting

• Automatically saves and backs up drafts to the cloud, so nothing is lost

• The mechanical keyboard makes typing a more enjoyable experience, encouraging users to write more

2. Freewrite Traveler

The Freewrite Traveler is a portable, distraction-free writing device designed for those who want to write on the go. It features a lightweight design, weighing only 1.6 pounds, making it easy to carry everywhere. The E Ink™ display offers an eye-friendly reading experience, with no glare or harsh backlight, perfect for long writing sessions. The full-size scissor-switch keyboard is smooth and responsive, providing a comfortable typing experience. With automatic cloud syncing, your drafts are safely backed up and accessible from any device. The Traveler is built to handle all your writing needs, whether at home or on an adventure. This device works great for both kids and adults.

Key Advantages:

• Lightweight and portable, perfect for writing anywhere without the bulk of a laptop

• The E Ink™ display is gentle on the eyes and works well even in bright sunlight

• The scissor-switch keyboard offers a smooth, comfortable typing experience for long sessions

• Automatically saves your work to the cloud, so you never have to worry about losing your drafts

• Long battery life ensures that you can keep writing without interruptions, even on extended trips

3. Alpha Raven Black with Backlight

The Alpha Raven Black with Backlight is a portable writing device that’s perfect for anyone who needs to write on the go. Weighing just under 2 pounds, it's lightweight and easy to carry anywhere. The backlight is warm and adjustable, making it perfect for writing day or night. With its full-size mechanical keyboard featuring low-profile switches, typing is comfortable and smooth. The device saves your work continuously, so you never have to worry about losing your progress. Plus, all your drafts are backed up automatically to the cloud, making it easy to access your work from any device. Both kids and adults will find this device useful.

Key Advantages:

• Lightweight and portable, ideal for writing during commutes or while traveling

• The adjustable backlight ensures that you can write in any lighting condition, day or night

• The keyboard provides a smooth and comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue

• Continuous saving and automatic cloud syncing keep your drafts secure and easily accessible

• The long battery life (up to 100 hours) means you can write for days without needing to recharge

4. Hemingwrite Signature Edition

The Ernest Hemingway Freewrite Signature Edition, also known as the "Hemingwrite," is a special collaboration with the Ernest Hemingway estate, designed for writers who want to embrace simplicity and focus. This premium device features a raw aluminum body that develops a unique patina over time, making each one a personalized piece. It comes with a green keycap keyboard, offering a tactile, satisfying typing experience. The Hemingwrite is built to keep you in your writing flow, free from distractions, with automatic cloud syncing to save your drafts.While ideal for adults, it can also be a great tool for kids who are developing their writing skills.

Key Advantages:

• The unique raw aluminum design develops a personal patina, making each device one-of-a-kind

• The green keycap keyboard provides a comfortable, tactile typing experience that enhances long writing sessions

• Automatic cloud syncing ensures your drafts are safely backed up and accessible from any device

• The minimalist design and focus on writing flow help users stay distraction-free

• Comes with a premium leather attaché case for stylish protection and easy transport

5. Freewrite Alpha Cosmic Edition

The Freewrite Alpha Cosmic Edition is designed for those who want to write without distractions, whether during the day or late at night. Featuring a warm built-in backlight with adjustable brightness, this device ensures you can write comfortably in any lighting. Its sleek, terrazzo-speckled hull is both modern and eye-catching, and the lightweight body makes it easy to carry anywhere. With continuous storage, your drafts are safely stored and backed up to the cloud, so you never have to worry about losing your work. The device also comes with a premium felt sleeve to protect it during your travels. It's a perfect tool for writers of all ages, including kids, who are ready to embark on their own creative journeys.

Key Advantages:

• The adjustable backlight allows for writing day or night, with a warm glow to reduce eye strain

• Lightweight and portable, making it easy to take from cafés to outdoor adventures

• Continuous storage ensures that every word is saved and safely backed up to the cloud

• Comes with a stylish, premium felt sleeve to protect the device while on the go

• The minimalist design and lack of distractions help you stay focused on writing, unleashing creativity

6. Freewrite Smart Typewriter Valentine Edition

The Freewrite Smart Typewriter Valentine Edition is a bold, stylish device that combines the elegance of iconic 1969 Italian design with modern writing technology. It’s more than just a tool for drafting; it’s a statement piece. With its sleek aluminum body and mechanical keyboard, it offers a satisfying and focused writing experience. The E Ink screen is easy on the eyes, allowing you to write day or night without distractions. Its long-lasting battery and wireless syncing to the cloud ensure that your work is always backed up and safe. Valentine also comes with a meticulously designed carrying case, making it the perfect companion for writers on the go. This device can also be a great tool for kids looking to develop their writing skills in a focused environment.

Key Advantages:

• The stunning 1969-inspired design makes it a unique and stylish writing tool

• Backlit E Ink screen ensures comfortable writing in any lighting condition, day or night

• Wireless syncing automatically saves your drafts to the cloud, keeping your work secure

• The mechanical keyboard provides excellent tactile feedback, enhancing the writing experience

• Comes with a premium, water-resistant carrying case and strap, offering protection and portability

Conclusion

Figuring out the right amount of screen time for a 5-year-old can feel tricky, especially when so many devices are built to grab and hold their attention. While a little screen time isn’t the end of the world, it’s important to set limits and make sure it’s not replacing the things that really help kids grow, like playing, being active, using their imagination, and connecting with people face-to-face.

That’s where tools like Freewrite can really help. Instead of giving kids another screen that leads to games or endless videos, Freewrite gives them a calm, focused space to write, learn, and create. It’s tech with purpose - made for helping kids build skills without all the usual distractions. Whether your child is just getting into writing or needs a device for schoolwork, Freewrite is a great way to support healthy habits while keeping screen time in check.

Frequently Asked Questions