Screen Time May Harm Babies Under Two, Study Finds

A landmark study has found that screen time for babies and toddlers under the age of two may cause long-term harm to their health and development. Researchers looked at all the available global studies on the topic and found a wide range of concerns. They are now calling on the UK government to take urgent action and update its advice to parents.

The study was led by researchers from four UK universities: Leeds, Leeds Trinity, Loughborough, and Aston. Together, they form a group called the Action on Digital Device Immersive Conditions Team. They say their review is the most thorough look yet at how screens affect very young children.

Rafe Clayton, a senior lecturer at the University of Leeds, co-led the research. He said parents are "inadvertently teaching children and babies to develop unhealthy habits and relationships with screen devices." He added simply: "This has to change."

The researchers found that screen use in babies under two could lead to many problems. These include less time to bond with parents, fewer chances to play with other children, and slower language development. Screen use may also make it harder for babies to sleep and could affect their eyesight and weight.

One concern stood out to the researchers. Some babies may be turning to screens for comfort instead of turning to a parent or caregiver. The team said this could cause children to feel more isolated and fall further behind in their development.

The study was careful to say it did not prove screens directly cause these problems. However, it was very clear that "no under-twos should receive regular intentional screen time." The team added that while some accidental exposure to screens is hard to avoid, giving babies screen time on purpose adds risk with no real benefit.

The UK government already has guidance that tells parents to avoid screen time for children under two. However, it adds an exception for "shared activities that encourage bonding, interaction and conversation." The research team says this exception could confuse parents and make them think some screen time is safe or even helpful.

Carmen Clayton, a professor at Leeds Trinity University and co-lead of the study, said the government needs to do a better job of talking with families. She said leaders must also be careful not to make parents feel judged when they talk about these issues. Many parents are already doing their best without much guidance.

Andrea Leadsom, a former government minister and founder of the 1,001 Critical Days Foundation, called the study "a wake-up call." She said parents should not be blamed for a problem they did not create. She also said technology companies must stop labeling content as suitable for babies when the evidence says otherwise.

Rachel de Souza, the children's commissioner for England, helped write the current government advice. She said the guidance was meant to support parents, not replace their own judgment. She noted that some shared screen use, like video calls with family members, is still considered normal.

The research team is asking the government to set up a "baby screen-time risk assessment." This would help health and family services spot children who may be falling behind and give their families extra support. The team believes early action can make a big difference in a child's life.