The UK government has issued new guidance, requiring children under the age of five to be limited to one hour of screen time a day, while under-twos should not be watching screens alone.
This comes after children’s commissioner for England Dame Rachel de Souza and Department for Education scientific adviser Prof Russell Viner have reviewed the latest evidence, finding that long periods of time spent on screens alone can affect children’s sleep and physical activity, which are key to their development.
The guidance advises parents to steer clear of fast-paced videos and use screens together with their children where possible.
It also suggests “screen swaps” – taking screens away to read stories together or playing simple games at mealtimes.
Parents should also lead by example, the guidance recommends, as children’s brains are “like sponges – they’ll copy your screen use habits” and encourage being present with children.
According to a report by the BBC, the guidance is the first evidence-backed, practical advice issued by the government.
