The UK government is set to issue its first official guidance on screen time for children under five, following stark new research revealing a direct link between excessive device use and poorer language skills in toddlers.
The Alarming Data Behind the Warning
Groundbreaking research commissioned by the government indicates that higher screen use for children under two is clearly associated with weaker language development. The study found a significant gap in vocabulary between children at opposite ends of the usage scale.
Those with the highest exposure – approximately five hours a day – were able to say far fewer words than their peers who watched screens for an average of just 44 minutes daily. This comes as figures show an overwhelming 98% of children are using screens every day by the age of two, a critical window for learning to talk.
A National Response Shaped by Families
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson confirmed the guidance will be published in April. Writing in the Sunday Times, she admitted her own parental struggles, saying: "Like so many parents, I've had evenings where you give in when your little one wants 'just one more' episode of their favourite show. But we're beginning to see the risks when 'just one more' starts to add up."
She stressed the initiative will be "shaped by parents, not dictated to them", with families, children, and early years practitioners all involved in the process. A national working group, led by Children's Commissioner for England Dame Rachel de Souza and Department for Education scientific adviser Professor Russell Viner, will oversee the development. Its terms of reference will be published on Monday.
Practical Support for Modern Parenting
Ms Phillipson acknowledged that screens "are not going anywhere" but advocated for using them well. She suggested shared activities like reading a story on a tablet or using it for educational games. The forthcoming guidance will also focus on providing parents with realistic alternatives to screen time.
"This is about offering clear, practical advice on how screens fit alongside the everyday activities that matter most in the early years, including talking, playing and reading together," the Education Secretary explained.
The move follows consistent feedback from parents, teachers, and nursery staff who report that young children are increasingly finding it harder to hold conversations, concentrate, or engage fully in learning activities when they start their early education.
