UK Ministers to Publish First-Ever Guidance on Children’s Screen Time
UK ministers are set to publish official guidance on children’s screen use for the first time, aimed at helping parents manage how much time young people spend on digital devices. The move comes as concerns grow over the impact of excessive screen exposure on children’s health and development.
The government has launched a three-week call for evidence to shape the guidance, which is expected to be released in autumn. It will focus on children aged five to 16 and is expected to include advice on daily screen time limits, the appropriate age for a child’s first smartphone, and the use of technology in schools.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said parents need “clear, practical support they can trust” when navigating their children’s digital habits. Officials say the guidance is intended to provide consistency and clarity for families across the country.
Children’s Commissioner for England, Dame Rachel de Souza, said children benefit from technology but often struggle to find a healthy balance. She noted that both young people and parents frequently ask for clearer rules and stronger guidance on managing screen time effectively.
The consultation will also examine broader issues such as gaming and social media use among under-16s. It follows earlier discussions on whether to introduce stricter restrictions, including a possible ban on social media for children under 16 and limits on addictive platform features.
In March, the government already issued early advice suggesting that children under five should have no more than one hour of screen time per day, while children under two should not be left watching screens alone. Officials warn that prolonged screen use can negatively affect sleep patterns and physical activity levels, which are essential for healthy development.
