health
Keep under-fives’ screen time to no more than an hour a day, UK advice says
Keir Starmer promises to help parents limit children’s online activity as government issues guidance to families
TL;DR
- Children under five should limit screen time to one hour daily.
- For children under two, screens should be avoided except for shared interactive activities.
- The government is considering social media bans for those under 16.
- Screen time for two- to five-year-olds should be less than an hour if possible.
- Fast-paced social media-style videos and AI toys are discouraged for this age group.
- Bedtimes and mealtimes should be screen-free, replaced with activities like reading or games.
- Shared screen activities, like video calls, are beneficial when discussed with children.
- Excessive solo screen time negatively impacts sleep, physical activity, play, and parent interaction.
- Special educational needs and disabilities using assistive technologies are an exception to these limits.
- Parents are also encouraged to model responsible screen use and establish family screen-free periods.