Screen time is part of daily life for children and young people, but how much screen time is too much? With smartphones, tablets, game consoles, and streaming platforms readily available, the time children spend looking at screens can quickly add up. The NHS and the World Health Organisation have issued guidelines to help families make healthier choices, while the UK Parliament’s Education Committee has also raised concerns about the potential negative impact of excessive screen use on children’s wellbeing.
In this article, you’ll find evidence-based screen time recommendations by age UK, practical tips for managing screen time, and advice on how to help children develop healthy habits so they can get on with other things they love to do.
What Does Screen Time Mean?
Screen time refers to the amount of time spent looking at screens such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, game consoles, or televisions. It includes activities like playing video games, watching videos, scrolling social media, or even doing school work online.
The impact of screen time can vary depending on factors such as the child’s age, the type of content, and whether the activity is passive or interactive.
NHS Guidance on Screen Time
The NHS does not set a strict daily limit on screen time for children, but it does recommend balancing screen use with physical activity, sleep, and time with family and friends. The NHS recommends that children take regular breaks from screens, and that screens are avoided during mealtimes and before bed to protect children’s wellbeing.
For more detailed NHS guidance, you can visit their official advice on screen time.
Screen Time for Children: How Much is Too Much?
There is no one-size-fits-all rule, but many experts suggest:
✅ Children under the age of two – ideally avoid all screen use except video calling loved ones.
✅ Children under 5 – no more than one hour per day of age-appropriate, supervised content.
✅ Children over the age of five – focus on quality content, supervision, and ensuring screens don’t replace social activities or outdoor time.
✅ School age children and teenagers – encourage a balance of screen time with social skills practice, school work, and physical movement.
The World Health Organisation also recommends that children aged under five have no more than an hour per day of sedentary screen time (source).
Managing Screen Time for Young Children
Managing screen time is not just about setting limits; it’s about helping children learn best through age-appropriate, educational, and interactive content.
Here are some top tips to help reduce screen time for young children:
- Co-watch or play video games together to help them learn and spot inappropriate content
- Set consistent time limits
- Keep screens out of bedrooms
- Use parental controls to monitor apps and games
- Prioritise outdoor time and physical activity
- Schedule tech-free times, such as during mealtime
Remember, young children learn best through face-to-face play and conversation, which supports their communication skills, emotional regulation, and social skills.
How Does Screen Time Affect Children?
Excessive screen time can affect children’s behaviour, mood, and even their mental and physical health. Some studies suggest too much screen time can interfere with children’s wellbeing, reducing opportunities for social skills development and healthy movement.
According to the Education Committee in the UK Parliament, there are rising concerns about screen time and social media affecting children and young people, with particular focus on issues like cyberbullying, attention span, and sleep disruption (UK Parliament Education Committee).
While educational apps or school platforms can support learning, children still need time to get on with other things, including free play, family time, and rest.
Top Tips to Help Reduce Screen Time
If you are looking for help to manage your child’s screen use, here are some family-friendly ideas:
✔ Plan regular device-free activities (board games, crafts, outdoor sports)
✔ Talk about what they’re watching or playing
✔ Avoid using screens as the only way to entertain children
✔ Encourage appropriate content and supervise online activity
✔ Be a good role model in your own screen habits
✔ Remind children to move regularly instead of sitting still
These strategies can support your child’s health and wellbeing while ensuring they get the benefits of technology without the risks.
Screen Time Recommendations by Age: A Summary
✅ Children under 2: avoid screens (except video chat)
✅ Children under 5: up to 1 hour a day of supervised, age-appropriate content
✅ School-age and teenagers: no strict limits, but consistent rules, supervision, and regular breaks
If you need further support, organisations such as Ofcom offer reports on UK children’s media use (Ofcom Children and Parents: Media Use and Attitudes) to help parents stay informed.
Final Thoughts on Screen Time
Ultimately, screen time can also be positive if it supports learning, creativity, or family connection. But balancing screens with outdoor time, play, and quality sleep is key to promoting children’s wellbeing.
If you are worried about your child’s screen use, talk to your GP, health visitor, or teacher for advice, or look for resources from trusted organisations like Ofcom.
By staying involved, setting healthy boundaries, and encouraging other activities, you can help your child develop a safe and positive relationship with technology.