Promoting healthy screen time habits Following weeks of engagement with over a thousand parents who called for clear support on how much screen time is too much, and how to build healthy habits, Labour is delivering on its promise to provide judgement-free, practical support if parents need it.
The new guidance is available for free on the Best Start in Life website , with key tips including:
- Under 2s: Avoiding screen time other than for shared activities that encourage bonding, interaction and conversation. - 2 to 5-year-olds: Trying to keep it to no more than one hour a day. Avoid at mealtimes and in the hour before bed. - Content: Choosing slow-paced, age-appropriate content. Fast-paced, social media-style videos and AI toys or tools should be avoided for young children. - Co-viewing: Watching or using screens together - talking, asking questions and engaging with the content - is better for children’s development than solo screen use.
The roll out of Best Start Family Hubs, with hundreds of new hubs set to open across the country next week, will provide parenting advice, services and community support closer to families who need it most. The screen time guidance will be available through the hubs, giving parents access to the advice face-to-face as well as online.
Today’s guidance is the latest step in Labour’s work to provide children with the best start in life, and break down barriers to opportunity.
