Impact of Screen Time Exposure on Children Under 2 Years Old

Children under the age of two should not be exposed to screens at all, according to a recent systematic review linking screen exposure in the first two years to long-term impacts on children’s health and quality of life. The analysis found strong evidence that the use of digital media, particularly television, mobile phones, and tablets, is already widespread among children under two years old. Researchers stated that gadget exposure has the potential to cause negative effects on child development. Screen time in children under two can reduce bonding with parents, limit language development, and increase the risk of overstimulation. “We have known that screen use among children under two is a global problem, which until now has not been adequately addressed,” said researcher and senior lecturer at the University of Leeds, Rafe Clayton. Clayton said the first two years of life are a critical period for building the foundations of a child’s physical and mental health. According to him, screen use during this period has an impact on a generation and their future quality of life. Based on these findings, researchers from the University of Leeds, Leeds Trinity University, Aston University, and Loughborough University recommend that children under two should not receive regular and intentional screen time. They also urge that guidance stating shared screen use for children under two is acceptable, and guidance suggesting screen technology is suitable for all ages, be reviewed. “We hope these findings can inform parents, practitioners, and policymakers to support sustainable technology use and inform the development of relevant guidance for young children,” said Richard James, an expert in addictive behaviour at Loughborough University. James stated that minimal guidance causes parents to unknowingly teach babies and children to build unhealthy habits and relationships with screen devices. In the observation, the researchers also noted that screen use continues to increase among children. By the time they reach the age of two, daily screen use has become almost universal and has exceeded recommended limits.