Study Warns of Long-Term Risks of Screen Use in Infants and Toddlers

A recent study has issued a warning about the risks associated with screen use among infants and toddlers under the age of two, emphasizing the importance of avoiding any screen exposure during this critical developmental period.

Described as the most comprehensive global review to date on this topic, the study links early childhood screen use to several long-term negative effects. These include delayed language development, sleep disturbances, eye health problems, and increased likelihood of obesity.

Calls for Revising Screen Time Guidelines

The study urges governments to reconsider existing recommendations regarding screen use for children under five years old. It points out that current guidelines from the World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics, which advise against screen exposure for children younger than two, are widely disregarded during the first 1001 days of life—from pregnancy through the child’s second birthday.

New guidelines recommend avoiding screen use entirely for children under two, except for shared activities that foster interaction and dialogue between the child and their parents.

Why Smartphones Should Be Avoided Before Age 11

Researchers caution that any screen use during this early stage may be associated with a broader range of issues. These include weakened communication with parents, reduced peer play, increased risk of overstimulation, and reliance on devices to regulate emotions.

Raf Clayton from the University of Leeds described screen use among children under two as a global concern that is insufficiently addressed, warning of potential consequences for an entire generation’s quality of life.

Andrea Lidsom, founder of the "1001 Critical Days" initiative, called the findings a "wake-up call," noting that the benefits of screen exposure for infants are limited while the risks during this sensitive developmental window are clear.

Shared Responsibility and Technology’s Role

Lidsom emphasized that parents should not bear sole responsibility for this issue, stating that screens have become an integral part of daily life and many families face challenges without adequate support. She also called on technology companies to take responsibility by refraining from promoting content labeled as suitable for infants despite evidence to the contrary.

Alternatives to Screen Time for Healthy Development

The study highlights that supporting children during this period requires not only reducing screen time but also adopting effective alternatives. These include spending time outdoors in nature, avoiding device use during meals, encouraging play with non-digital toys, and fostering direct interaction with others, all of which positively impact social and physical development.

The review also found a correlation between parental screen use and increased screen time among children. However, it stresses that parents should not be blamed given the pervasive presence of screens in many aspects of daily life, including work, shopping, education, healthcare, and social communication.