06/10/2026
📱✨ One size doesn't fit all when it comes to screen time.
It can be tempting to compare your child's screen use with others, but every child is different. Age, personality, interests, development, family routines, and what they're actually doing on a screen all play a part.
Research suggests that the quality of screen time and the context in which it's used can be just as important as the number of minutes spent on a device.
👶 Under 2s
Try to avoid screen time, except for shared family activities.
🧒 Ages 2-5
Aim for no more than 1 hour of high-quality, age-appropriate content each day.
👦 Ages 6-12
Focus on setting clear and consistent screen boundaries that work for your family, and stick to them.
Remember, it's not just about how much screen time children have, but how they're using it. Healthy screen habits leave plenty of time for sleep, play, learning, and family connection.
If in doubt, ask yourself:
💬 Is my child interacting and learning?
👨👩👧 Am I watching or playing alongside them?
🏃 Is screen time leaving plenty of room for sleep, play, movement, and family time?
😊 Is my child happy and engaged away from screens too?
The goal isn't perfection. It's finding a balance that works for your child and your family while making sure screens don't replace the experiences young children need most to grow and thrive.
For more information on the latest guidance from Best Start in Life around healthy screen time habits for under 5's visit www.beststartinlife.gov.uk/screen-time-under-5s/
Find out more information on screen time for children here https://netpsychology.org/screen-time-for-children-finding-healthy-limits/
Make screen time work for you
