UK Government to Release Screen Time Guidance for Young Children

Parents of young children in the UK will soon receive official guidance on screen use for kids under five, as concerns grow over the impact of screens on early development. The new national recommendations aim to help parents manage daily exposure to phones, tablets, TVs, and computers, responding to research linking excessive screen time to delayed language skills. The guidance, expected in April, is being developed by Children’s Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza and Professor Russell Viner, a former Department of Education scientific advisor.

Alarming Statistics on Screen Use in Toddlers

Recent government research highlights that nearly all children under two in the UK—about 98%—are exposed to screens daily. The study found a stark contrast in language development: children spending around five hours a day in front of screens reportedly use significantly fewer words than those whose screen time averages just 44 minutes. These findings underscore growing worries among experts and parents about how early and prolonged screen exposure might affect communication and cognitive growth.

Opposition Calls for Broader Social Media Measures

The announcement coincides with the UK Conservative opposition signaling tougher restrictions for older children. Opposition leader Kemi Badenoch has proposed banning under-16s from social media and restricting smartphone use in schools if her party gains power. “Many parents want to limit their children’s access but don’t know how,” she told the BBC. Her plan mirrors Australia’s recent move, which became the first country to restrict social media use for children under 16 last month.

Learning from International Examples

Australia’s social media restrictions for under-16s have drawn global attention, highlighting a proactive approach to tackling online risks for children. UK officials are watching these developments closely, using them as a reference point while shaping guidance tailored to younger children’s developmental needs. Experts argue that clear guidance can empower parents to establish healthy habits early, before children develop entrenched digital routines.

Supporting Parents with Practical Advice

The upcoming guidance promises practical advice, focusing on age-appropriate screen use, interactive play, and the balance between digital and real-world activities. By offering concrete strategies, the government hopes to address the uncertainty many parents feel about limiting screen exposure, particularly as digital devices become increasingly integrated into daily life. Experts emphasize that moderation and mindful engagement are key for children’s social, emotional, and cognitive growth.

Next Steps and Implementation

Parents can expect the full guidance to be published in April, with recommendations likely including daily screen limits and suggestions for parent-led digital interactions. Alongside the guidance, government agencies may roll out informational campaigns to raise awareness among families and educators, ensuring that healthy screen habits are encouraged nationwide. As debates continue about social media restrictions for older children, early guidance for under-fives represents a proactive step in shaping healthier digital habits from the start.