The AAP 's Rec for Children and Video Screen Time

In the past, it was merely limiting time in front of the television, but for today's parents and children it is television, computer, ipad, iphone, and video games.
When new viewing recommendations are released, it brings parental guilt to the forefront, which is followed by frustration, as most of us recognize that time spent engaged and active is better than sedentary screen time, but while every other career offers lunch and breaks, moms and dads get no such luxury; in fact, most days when I am home with my son, I do not get to go to the bathroom alone.  So how do you balance your children's developmental needs and your sanity?
First, find ways to accomplish as much as you can with your children.  From letting cleanliness triumph over modesty by letting your child sit in the bumpo in the shower while you bathe to running an errand on either side of story time, accept that every moment is not about their enrichment, and remind yourself that they are not parked in front of a screen and that as you talk to them and perform mundane activities, they are learning.  Second, cut yourself some slack.  Find safe, age appropriate shows and if you need a break, make it for a reasonable time, and do what you need to do.  Finally, if you need more time and they need more activity, consider a mother's morning out, sitter, or playgroup, but honor both of your needs.  Studies have found that children need the life lessons that come from preschool, so do not feel guilty about getting help.
To expect yourself to be the educational, nurturing, and energetic parent without help or breaks is impractical.  You need time to recharge and nurture yourself and you have to accept that the unexpected will need to be addressed at the least opportune time.  So schedule time for yourself into your week, so that when you are with your child, you want to focus on them and when the unexpected pulls you in another direction, feel no guilt for thirty minutes of screen time, because it is the exception not the norm.   

See New York Times article on American Academy of Pediatrics' recommendations.