A comprehensive review by researchers from four UK universities has concluded that children under the age of two should avoid regular screen exposure, warning that early use of televisions, smartphones and tablets may have lasting effects on their health and development.
The systematic review found that digital media use has become widespread among infants and toddlers around the world, despite growing evidence linking early screen exposure to developmental risks. Researchers said the first two years of life are a critical period for building the foundations of physical, emotional and cognitive development, making excessive screen use a matter of increasing concern.
According to the study, regular screen time can reduce opportunities for young children to interact with parents and caregivers, engage in physical play and develop early language skills. Researchers also warned that prolonged exposure may contribute to overstimulation during a stage of rapid brain development.
Rafe Clayton, senior lecturer at the University of Leeds, said the findings show that screen use among children under two has become a global issue that is not being addressed effectively.
He said the first two years of life play a vital role in shaping a child’s future health and wellbeing, adding that excessive screen exposure during this period could affect an entire generation’s quality of life.
The review was carried out by experts from the University of Leeds, Leeds Trinity University, Aston University and Loughborough University. Based on the available evidence, the researchers recommend that children younger than two should not receive intentional or routine screen time.
They also urged policymakers to reconsider guidance that suggests shared screen use is acceptable for babies or that digital devices are suitable for children of all ages.
Richard James, an expert in addictive behaviours at Loughborough University, said the findings could help parents, healthcare professionals and governments develop clearer recommendations on healthy technology use for young children.
He added that many parents currently lack practical guidance and may unintentionally encourage unhealthy habits by introducing screens at an early age.
The researchers noted that by the age of two, daily screen use has become almost universal and often exceeds recommended limits. They said one of the main reasons is the growing pressure on parents and caregivers, who frequently rely on digital devices to occupy children while managing work and household responsibilities.
Andrea Leadsom, founder of the 1001 Critical Days Foundation, which commissioned the review, said families should not be left to deal with the issue alone. She called on technology companies to accept greater responsibility and stop promoting digital content as suitable for babies when scientific evidence suggests otherwise.
The researchers hope the review will encourage updated public health guidance and greater awareness of the developmental importance of limiting screen exposure during the earliest years of life.
