Safety

At this stage, we continue strengthening the skills developed so far through play, movement, and imagination. Special attention is given to an important area at this age: social development. Children should be encouraged to play with peers at home, outdoors, and in other settings, while minimizing exposure to television and computer screens and increasing outdoor activities in nature and playgrounds.

At the same time, it is important to set clear boundaries for screen use and encourage as much play, movement, and peer interaction as possible. At age 5, screen time should be limited to up to one hour per day, and from age 6 to less than two hours per day during leisure time. At all ages, it is important to choose age-appropriate content, maintain screen-free times, and avoid screens before bedtime, including background screens.

Around age 6, children can begin swimming lessons, and until then it is important to follow water safety rules. At this age, it is also recommended to start practicing safe road crossing with children, for example on the way to kindergarten or school, as well as safe travel rules for school transportation. However, it is important to remember that children do not have the necessary skills to cross roads independently until around age 9.

It is also important to know that although age 6 is the legal age at which children may be left home alone, this is not recommended, at least until age 9, and even then only depending on each child’s willingness, maturity, and individual ability.