Screen Time for Under-Fives Should Be Limited

Published: Friday, 27 March 2026

The English Chronicle Desk

The English Chronicle Online — Health

Parents have been urged to restrict screen time for children under the age of five to no more than one hour per day, following new guidance from health experts. The recommendation comes amid growing concerns about the impact of prolonged exposure to digital devices on young children’s development.

The advice, issued by child health specialists, highlights risks including disrupted sleep patterns, reduced physical activity, and delayed social and language skills. Experts stress that while limited screen use can be educational, excessive reliance on tablets, smartphones, and televisions may hinder healthy growth.

The guidance encourages parents to prioritise interactive play, outdoor activities, and face-to-face communication. It also suggests that screen time should be supervised, with content tailored to age-appropriate learning rather than passive entertainment.

Health officials emphasised that the one-hour limit is not meant to demonise technology but to ensure balance. “Screens are part of modern life, but young children need real-world experiences to thrive,” one paediatrician explained.

The recommendation aligns with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, which similarly advise limiting sedentary screen time for children under five. Studies have shown that children who spend more time on screens are at greater risk of obesity, attention difficulties, and developmental delays.

Parents across the UK have expressed mixed reactions. Some welcomed the clarity, saying it helps set boundaries in households where digital devices are ubiquitous. Others argued that enforcing strict limits is challenging, particularly when screens are used for education or to occupy children during busy schedules.

The debate reflects broader societal concerns about technology’s role in childhood. As digital devices become increasingly integrated into everyday life, experts say striking the right balance will be crucial for future generations.

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