British study warns against screen time for children under two

A comprehensive review led by researchers at the University of Leeds and partner UK universities found that frequent, intentional exposure of infants to smartphones, tablets and other digital screens during the first 1,000 days is linked to negative long‑term effects on language development, social skills, sleep, eye health and obesity risk. The authors argue that current guidance allowing limited screen use for children under two is too permissive and call for a revision of official recommendations, inclusion of screen‑risk assessments in early health checks and stronger support for parents to limit exposure.

The study urges the British government to re‑evaluate recent guidelines for children up to five years old, stressing that any screen time for babies should be shared, interactive and limited. Researchers highlight a policy “blind spot” regarding infants, recommending clearer public messaging and early‑intervention pathways to protect vulnerable families from the developmental harms associated with early digital device use.