Government issues screen time guidance for under-5s

The government has published its first official guidance on screen use for children under five, aiming to help parents manage the growing influence of digital devices in early childhood.

The advice follows engagement with more than 1,000 parents, many of whom said they wanted clearer, practical support on how much screen time is appropriate and how to establish healthy habits. Ministers say the guidance is designed to offer non-judgemental, evidence-based advice as families navigate increasingly digital environments.

Research cited by the government highlights the scale of the challenge. Around 98% of two-year-olds watch screens daily, while nearly a quarter (24%) of parents of three-to-five year olds report difficulty controlling their child’s screen use.

The new recommendations, published on the “Best Start in Life” website, include limiting screen exposure for younger children and encouraging more interactive use. For children under two, parents are advised to avoid screen time except for shared activities that support bonding and communication. For those aged two to five, screen use should be limited to no more than one hour a day, with screens discouraged during mealtimes and before bed.

Parents are also encouraged to choose slow-paced, age-appropriate content and to avoid fast-moving, social media-style videos and AI-driven tools aimed at young children. The guidance emphasises that co-viewing—where parents watch and engage with content alongside their child—can support development more effectively than solo use.

The policy forms part of broader efforts to improve children’s wellbeing in the digital age, alongside a government consultation on online safety measures.