As any parent knows, sometimes the best way to get through a pram walk, shopping trip or café catch-up is with a little help from your child’s favourite cartoon. In today’s world, screens can be a lifesaver for parents on the go but it’s important to use them wisely.
Whether you use a phone or tablet to keep your toddler entertained while they’re in the stroller, there are simple ways to make sure screen time is safe, healthy and comfortable. From posture to eye strain, a few small changes can make a big difference.
Here are 5 practical tips for safer screen time while your toddler is in the pram plus a clever accessory that can make outings easier for you both.
✅ 1. Choose Calming, Age-Appropriate Content
Not all screen time is equal. Instead of random videos, pick gentle, age-appropriate shows or apps that are educational or calming. Nursery rhymes, simple stories or interactive learning apps can help keep your child engaged without overstimulating them perfect for a quiet walk or a quick break in the park.
✅ 2. Set Clear Limits on Screen Time
Experts recommend that toddlers have limited daily screen time ideally no more than an hour a day, spread out in short sessions. When you’re out and about, keep stroller screen time short and predictable. For example, let your child know they can watch one short video or use the device for 10–20 minutes. Clear limits help avoid battles later and encourage healthy habits.
✅ 3. Position the Screen at Eye Level
One of the biggest posture problems for toddlers is looking down at a screen in their lap. This can lead to neck strain and bad habits. The solution? Keep the device securely at your child’s eye level.
A secure phone holder that attaches to the stroller like Stroller Mate makes this easy. It holds your phone in the perfect position so your child can look straight ahead, helping them sit up straight and stay comfy. Plus, you keep your hands free!
👉 [Check out Stroller Mate here.]
✅ 4. Adjust the Brightness
Outdoor glare can make screens hard to see, tempting kids to hold them too close to their face. Keep the brightness high enough to see clearly but not so bright it causes eye strain. If possible, angle the pram canopy or use a sunshade to block direct sunlight on the screen.
✅ 5. Make Sure They’re Seated Correctly
Good posture starts with the seat itself. Make sure your toddler’s stroller seat is upright and properly adjusted. When they’re sitting comfortably with good back support, it’s much easier to keep their head and neck in a healthy position. Combine this with a phone holder that keeps the screen in place, and you’ve got an easy recipe for better posture even on the go.
✅ A Smarter Way to Enjoy Screen Time
Screens aren’t going anywhere they’re a helpful tool for modern parents. The trick is to use them wisely. By choosing the right content, setting healthy limits and using a safe phone holder to position the screen properly, you can make screen time more comfortable and posture-friendly for your little one.
At Stroller Mate, we designed our unique stroller phone holder to help toddlers sit upright, reduce neck strain and keep your hands free. It’s simple, secure and perfect for Aussie families on the move.
Ready to make outings easier? [Shop Stroller Mate now.]
✅ Final Tips
✔️ Supervise your child’s screen use and check in regularly.
✔️ Talk with your child about what they’re watching.
✔️ Use screen time as a tool, not a babysitter.
A little planning goes a long way to keep your toddler happy, safe and comfortable — wherever your next adventure takes you.
