U.S. Surgeon General Issues New Advisory on Children's Screen Time

The U.S. Surgeon General’s Office released an advisory warning that excessive recreational screen use for children and teens is linked to poor sleep, anxiety, depression, and developmental delays. The guidance recommends that youths ages 6 to 18 limit non‑educational screen time to no more than two hours per day, noting that many children already spend four or more hours daily on devices.

Pediatric experts emphasized the need to distinguish between educational and recreational use, encouraging parents to promote offline activities and to consider school policies such as phone bans that have been adopted in several districts. The advisory reiterates long‑standing American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations and acknowledges that research on screen time effects remains complex, with some evidence suggesting vulnerable youths may be more likely to spend increased time online.

Families, schools, and policymakers are urged to set clear boundaries around device use, balance screen time with physical activity, and monitor mental‑health outcomes.