"Don't Show Screens Even If Your Baby Cries"...Why Warnings for Children Under Two Have Been Issued

Findings from Joint UK University Research Team
Calls for Risk Assessment of Infant Screen Time

A new study has found that children under the age of 2 should not be exposed to digital screens, such as smartphones, even for educational purposes.

On June 29 (local time), a joint research team from the University of Leeds, Leeds Trinity University, Loughborough University, and Aston University in the UK announced these findings.

According to the researchers, children under 2 years old who are exposed to digital screens may experience long-term negative impacts on their health and development. The study noted that early-life screen use reduces opportunities for bonding with caregivers, physical play, and language development, while excessive stimulation can lead to sleep disturbances, childhood obesity, and eye health problems.

A child looking at a smartphone. Pixabay

The study also highlighted findings that infants exposed to screens before 6 months of age were more likely to fall into a high-risk group on autism spectrum disorder screening tests. However, the researchers added that a direct correlation between screen exposure and the development of specific disorders has not been established.

The research team incorporated not only a data analysis, but also surveys and interviews with 174 parents across the UK. The findings revealed that while parents were concerned about their children’s screen use, they had not received relevant guidance from health professionals.

The World Health Organization (WHO) had already recommended in 2019 that children under 2 years old avoid screen time. However, the research team pointed out that such recommendations are not being properly followed in many countries.

Accordingly, the researchers urged that, for children under the age of 2, guidelines should encourage co-viewing with parents or reconsider existing recommendations that label screen technology as suitable for 'all ages.' They also stressed the need for government, medical professionals, and the infant care industry to collaborate in establishing a 'risk assessment system for infant screen time.'

Dr. James from Loughborough University, who led the study, stated, "This review found considerable evidence suggesting that digital media use—especially television, mobile phones, and tablets—is widespread during a critical early life period and is associated with potential harm. We hope to contribute to the development of guidelines that support sustainable technology use for young children."

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