UK study warns screen time harms babies under two years

A comprehensive study by four British universities found that exposing infants under two to smartphones, tablets and other screens may increase the risk of a wide range of developmental difficulties. The researchers say that even limited screen exposure can reduce parent‑child interaction, lessen physical play, and impair language development, while also raising concerns about sleep, eye health and childhood obesity.

The study’s lead author, Rafe Clayton of the University of Leeds, urged that "this must change," and called on the UK government to tighten existing guidelines that currently advise avoiding screens for children under two, except for brief joint activities such as video calls. The authors recommend introducing a formal risk‑assessment framework to help families receive targeted support when developmental concerns arise.

Government officials, including children's commissioner Rachel de Souza, emphasized that the guidance is meant to support—not replace—parental judgment, acknowledging occasional shared screen use in realistic daily life.