New screen time guidance for children under five introduced by PM
Children under five should limit their screen time to one hour per day, as announced by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. The guidance aims to promote healthier developmental practices among young children, reports BritPanorama.
The Department for Education’s recommendations suggest that children aged two and under should avoid screens altogether, except during shared activities that encourage parent-child bonding. For those aged between three and five, screen usage should be capped at one hour daily, with screen time prohibited during meals and bedtime routines.
The initiative has been prompted by concerns highlighted by the charity Kindred Squared, which reported that 28% of children entering reception classes do not understand how to use a book correctly, instead attempting to swipe or tap pages as if they were on a device. The advice has been formulated by a group of experts from various fields, including child health specialists.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasized the intention behind the guidance, stating, “The guidance we’re setting out is to help parents make sure children can enjoy childhood, whether that’s reading, playing with friends, enjoying the outdoors.”
Starmer acknowledged the challenge parents face in managing screen time, describing it as a “relentless” issue exacerbated by ubiquitous technology. “My Government will not leave parents to face this battle alone,” he assured.
Responses regarding potential screen time limitations for children over five remain pending. Phillipson did not disclose future guidance pending results from a consultation regarding a possible social media ban for children under 16.
Meanwhile, the guidance advises parents to reduce their own screen usage around their children, highlighting that young minds are impressionable and likely to mirror adult behaviours. Data from tech regulator Ofcom indicates that 19% of children aged three to five possess mobile phones, while 37% engage with social media platforms and 91% use video-sharing services.
The Conservative Party has proposed a complete ban on smartphones in schools and is advocating for a social media blackout for individuals under 16. Shadow Education Secretary Laura Trott criticized the new guidance, claiming it “falls short of what’s needed.”
This latest initiative reflects ongoing efforts to address the increasing prevalence of screen technology in the lives of young children and aims to foster healthier, more engaging childhood experiences.
As the conversation around children’s interaction with technology continues, the challenge remains for policymakers to balance innovation and connectivity with developmental needs, ensuring a future generation grows up equipped not just with gadgets, but with foundational skills and experiences.
