A major new research project has been launched to investigate the significant effects of screen exposure on the youngest members of society, focusing on babies and toddlers.
Addressing a Critical 'Blind Spot' in Child Development
Academics from the universities of Leeds, Nottingham, Aston, and Leeds Trinity are leading the study, which is funded by the 1001 Critical Days Foundation. The research aims to address what experts call a major 'blind spot' in our understanding of how digital devices affect infants. Will Quince, chief executive of the charity, emphasised that the goal is to provide clear evidence for parents, not to criticise them, noting that some babies are exposed to screens for more than four hours each day.
Potential Long-Term Risks for Child Development
Child development experts involved in the study suggest that excessive screen time for babies can lead to longer-term difficulties. These potential issues include problems with sustained attention, effective communication, and problem-solving skills as the child grows. The research will seek to build a robust evidence base around these concerns, which have been highlighted by health professionals but lack comprehensive UK-specific data.
Official Guidance and Parental Awareness
The World Health Organisation (WHO) provides clear recommendations on this issue. They advise that children under the age of one should have no screen time at all. For children aged one to two years, the advice is to have no more than one hour of sedentary screen time daily, and less is considered better. This new UK study, announced in late December 2025, aims to reinforce this guidance with concrete findings and support parents in making informed decisions in an increasingly digital world.
