New Landmark Study Warns of Developmental Risks Linked to Screen Exposure in Infants Under Two

A landmark study has revealed that screen time for infants and toddlers under the age of two is linked to long-term negative impacts on health and quality of life, suggesting that digital device use should be avoided during this critical period.

The research warns that screen exposure in early childhood may trigger widespread developmental issues and calls for an urgent investigation into the risks posed by smartphones, tablets, and other digital technology to infants.

While current policy discussions often focus on teenage digital habits and proposed bans on social media for under-16s, researchers are highlighting a “baby blind spot” in regulation, noting that screen use has become deeply integrated into modern parenting.

Rafe Clayton, a senior lecturer in media and communication at the University of Leeds and co-leader of the study, noted that parents often lack sufficient guidance regarding their own digital habits, which can “inadvertently teach children and babies to develop unhealthy habits and relationships with screen devices.” He emphasized that this dynamic must change.

As the most comprehensive global review of existing research on the subject, the study urges the government to re-examine its recent guidance for children under five. Current recommendations suggest avoiding screen time for those under two, yet include caveats for “shared activities that encourage bonding, interaction and conversation.”

However, the new findings highlight a broad spectrum of potential harms, including diminished opportunities for parental bonding, reduced physical play with peers, and impaired language development. The study also suggests that early screen use may lead to overstimulation, sleep disturbances, eye health concerns, and childhood obesity. Furthermore, there is growing concern that infants are using digital devices as a substitute for parental soothing and comfort.

The review was conducted by the Action on Digital Device Immersive Conditions Team, representing four UK universities. While the researchers did not establish direct causality between screen use and specific conditions, they were definitive in their stance: “no under-twos should receive regular intentional screen time. Passive exposure is societally unavoidable, so adding deliberate use compounds risk without any meaningful benefit.”

The team recommends reconsidering any official guidance that encourages “shared screen time” or “screen time for learning” for children under two. They argue such advice may be misinterpreted by caregivers as a sign of safety, potentially exacerbating developmental delays and isolation in vulnerable children.

Consequently, the research team—comprising experts from the universities of Leeds, Leeds Trinity, Loughborough, and Aston—is advocating for a “baby screen-time risk assessment” to provide targeted support for families facing emerging developmental vulnerabilities.

Professor Carmen Clayton of Leeds Trinity University, also a study co-lead, stated that the government needs to improve engagement with families regarding problematic screen use while remaining sensitive to the judgment many parents fear when discussing these challenges.

Andrea Leadsom, former Conservative minister and founder of the 1,001 Critical Days Foundation, described the review as a “wake-up call,” noting that evidence suggests screens offer minimal benefits for babies and pose significant risks during the vital first 1,001 days of life. Leadsom argued that the responsibility should not fall solely on parents and called for better access to “Best Start” family hubs for trusted advice. She also urged technology companies to stop promoting content labeled as suitable for babies when evidence suggests otherwise.

Rachel de Souza, the Children’s Commissioner for England, who assisted in drafting government guidance, clarified that the recommendations are intended to support rather than replace parental judgment. She noted that while the recommendation to avoid screens for under-twos is clear, the guidance acknowledges modern realities, such as video-calling relatives.

A spokesperson for the Department for Education stated: “We’re proud of our first-of-its-kind screen time guidance for parents of under-fives, which provides clear, trusted support on an issue we know can be challenging for families.”

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