Researchers warn that using screens during the first 1,001 days of life could lead to developmental concerns in the next generation.
Digital screen time in children under two years of age is associated with long-term effects and limited benefits on health and quality of life, according to the most comprehensive systematic review to date of global peer-reviewed research on screen time in infants, published today (Saturday 27 June).
This affects an entire generation and the quality of life in the future.
Leif Clayton, School of Media and Communication
Based on the findings, the iADDICT group, made up of researchers from four UK universities, recommends that children under the age of two should not be intentionally given regular screen time. Academics have called for a reconsideration of guidance that instructs children under the age of two to share screen time or suggests that screen technology is suitable for “all ages”.
The researchers stress that their findings reflect the pressures of today’s digital environment, rather than individual child-rearing choices. They hope this review will provide carers with the latest evidence, allowing them to understand the risks and seek help sooner.
The research was commissioned by the 1001 Critical Days Foundation and carried out by academics across the fields of mental health, physical health and social sciences from the University of Leeds, Leeds Trinity University, Aston University and Loughborough University. The study also asked 174 parents across the UK to share their views on young children’s screen use and concerns about it through an online survey and focus group interviews.
Leif Clayton, co-lead of the report and senior lecturer in media and communications at the University of Leeds, said: “We found that screen use among young people under the age of two is a global concern that is not being adequately addressed in 2026. This will affect an entire generation and their future quality of life.”
“Screen time guidelines for children exist, but they are not followed. Part of the reason is that the adults who set the precedents for social use are themselves not being guided. Problematic screen use among adults is common as we experience a digital revolution, but Despite wanting and expecting it, the government currently does not provide screen time guidelines for adults. This must change, as unguided adults are inadvertently teaching children and babies unhealthy habits and relationships with screen devices.”
The study found a lack of guidance from health professionals to parents about screen use. Researchers believe this is a reminder of the contradictions between government and medical guidance and the real challenges parents face on a daily basis, and are calling for more targeted support.
Assess infant risk
Existing guidelines from the World Health Organization (2019) and American Academy of Pediatrics (2024) recommending that children under 2 avoid screen time are already being exceeded worldwide during the critical first 1,001 days of life, from conception to age 2, the report said.
The negative effects include reduced opportunities to bond with caregivers, reduced play with peers, limited language development, increased risk of overstimulation, difficulty sleeping, effects on eye health, increased risk of childhood obesity, and dependence on emotional regulation devices. However, this review does not establish a causal relationship between screen use and specific developmental conditions.
Researchers are calling for policy makers, health professionals and early childhood experts to work together to develop a risk assessment of baby screen time. This could help services provide targeted support, direct families to interactive alternatives, and intervene where developmental vulnerabilities may be emerging.
Carmen Clayton, Professor of Family and Cultural Dynamics at Leeds Trinity University and co-lead of the report, said: “Screen time is deeply integrated into the lives of many families throughout the day. Carers are asking for more guidance, but there is limited support from professionals. Governments need to consider how to better engage with families about problematic screen use, but are also sensitive to the fear of judgment that many parents face when opening up about such issues.”
Tips for parents
More research is needed to determine which strategies are most effective for parents and caregivers who want to reduce or reduce their baby’s screen time. However, reviews have proven that the following strategies have benefits:
- Taking children outdoors and spending time in nature eliminates screen time and helps with physical development and eye health.
- Avoiding screen use while eating may correlate with healthier eating habits.
- Access to non-digital toys is beneficial in reducing screen time and improving development.
- Spending time in the physical presence of others—meeting, interacting, and playing with others—supports social development.
A warning to society
The review also found that parent and caregiver screen time was correlated with infant screen time, but researchers stressed that parents should not be the focus of blame or criticism here. Digital screens are so woven into our lives, from work to buying groceries to accessing health care to communicating with friends and family, that passive screen exposure is inevitable.
Families are navigating this challenge without receiving the information and support they need. The responsibility cannot be placed solely on their shoulders.
Dame Andrea Leadsom, Founder of 1001 Critical Days Foundation
Researchers say that for a healthy future for humans, we as a society need to sustainably change our relationship with digital screens such as smartphones, tablets, televisions and game consoles. The first step toward social change is a focus on understanding adult screen time thresholds and reconsidering screen time guidance for children.
Dame Andrea Leadsom, founder of the 1001 Critical Days Foundation, said: “This landmark review is a wake-up call. The evidence increasingly suggests that screens have limited benefits for infants and may carry significant risks during the most critical period of human development, the first 1001 days. Parents should not be blamed for problems they did not cause.”
“Screens are now part of everyday life and many families are navigating this challenge without the information and support they need. The responsibility cannot be placed solely on the shoulders of families.
“That’s why all families should visit the Best Start Family Hub so they can access trusted advice and practical support in the first few years of their baby’s life.
“Technology companies must also play a role. Parents should not be presented with content that is labeled or promoted as suitable for babies when evidence shows the opposite. It’s time for a more honest approach to how content is promoted.”
“Every baby deserves to experience the best start in life. Supporting parents as they navigate the digital world is an essential part of making that ambition a reality.”
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Reference magazines:
The effects of screen time, media, and technology use on children under 2 years of age during the first 1001 days: A systematic review. DOI: 10.48785/100/487
