The UK government is set to publish its first-ever official guidance on screen time for children under five, in a direct response to mounting concerns over the impact on early development. The guidance, scheduled for release in April 2026, aims to support parents in managing their children's digital consumption.
Research Reveals Stark Impact on Language Skills
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson highlighted the urgency of the move, citing new government research that links higher screen use in under-twos to poorer language development. The study found a dramatic difference in vocabulary: children with around five hours of daily screen time could say significantly fewer words than their peers who watched screens for approximately 44 minutes per day.
Ms Phillipson noted that around 98 per cent of two-year-olds are already using screens daily. She acknowledged the practical challenges, writing in the Sunday Times: “Like so many parents, I’ve had evenings where you give in when your little one wants ‘just one more’ episode... But we’re beginning to see the risks when ‘just one more’ starts to add up.”
A Collaborative Approach Shaped by Parents
The guidance will be developed by a national working group led by the Children’s Commissioner for England, Dame Rachel de Souza, and the Department for Education’s scientific adviser, Professor Russell Viner. Crucially, the process will involve parents, children, and early years practitioners.
“I want this to be shaped with parents, not dictated to them,” Ms Phillipson stated. She emphasised the goal is to offer “clear, practical advice on how screens fit alongside the everyday activities that matter most in the early years, including talking, playing and reading together.”
Focus on Alternatives and Positive Use
Recognising that screens are a permanent fixture of modern life, the Education Secretary suggested a shift in focus: “They are not going anywhere, so let’s use them well.” This could involve sharing a story on a tablet or choosing educational games.
The core aim of the guidance will be to help families find practical alternatives to screen time. This initiative follows consistent feedback from educators and parents about children struggling with conversation, concentration, and engagement when they start nursery or school.
The terms of reference for the working group will be published imminently, with engagement sessions planned to finalise the guidance's content over the coming weeks.
