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Young children and screen time

Tablets, mobile ‘phones, TVs, laptops and computer games consoles are everywhere and most of us couldn’t do without them! We all know that allowing your child screen time sometimes feels like the only we can get things done. 

Screen time isn’t always a bad thing, there are many fantastic, educational apps out there that are great for helping children to develop but we need to be really mindful of how long we use them for.

Looking to reduce your family's screen time?

The 50 Things To Do team are running two webinars in September 2026 to share practical, realistic tips to help families manage screen time, including:

  • What healthy screen time can look like

  • Setting boundaries that work

  • Safely using technology when children do use it

For more information and to book a place, click on either of the following links:

How much screen time is okay for my child?

Advice from the World Health Organisation (WHO) suggests that children aged 2-5 should have a one hour limit on the time spent in front of screens.

What happens when children have too much screen time?

If a child spends too much time on screens, they may miss out on important learning and it can affect their health. Too much screen time can:

  • Reduce how much children talk and listen
  • Affect their eyesight as they get older
  • Make it harder for children to concentrate
  • Limit chances to play with others and learn social skills
  • Replace active play that helps children stay healthy
  • Make it harder for children to settle at bedtime

Top tips for safe Screen Time at home

  • Calm programmes with a clear story help their brains learn. Fast‑paced videos, like short social‑media clips, can be too exciting and may make it harder for young children to focus.
    Sit with your child and share the screen and talk about what they are doing or seeing.
  • Keep bedrooms and mealtimes free from screens. This can protect valuable family time and interaction.
  • Switch off and unplug devices and TVs when they are not in use – children will be easily distracted by TV programmes, even if the sound is turned down.
  • Don't let young children use AI toys, tools or chat-bots until we know more about their effects.

Visit our information page about keeping children safe online.

Be their role model

Children copy those around them. Be mindful of how long you are on your phone! Young children need you to be present, to give them attention, to feel loved and cared for.

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