The 5 Cs of Media Use
Pediatricians and providers often need quick, simple ways to discuss digital media with families. To help, we developed The 5 Cs of Media Use.
The 5 Cs is a mnemonic that can be used to talk to parents about kids and screens. They are: Child, Content, Calm, Crowding Out, and Communication. Along with this approach, we’ve created a series of five age-based handouts to give to parents at well-child visits. T he handouts start by informing parents about their children’s developmental stages, how this influences media use, and healthy media habits to strive for at home. This tool includes clear ties to family relational health, early childhood social-emotional development, and teen mental health.