The United Kingdom government is preparing to release official guidance on children’s screen use. The aim is to help parents manage technology in their children’s lives and encourage healthy digital habits.
A three-week call for evidence has been launched to gather opinions and research before the guidance is published in the autumn. The recommendations will focus on children aged five to 16 and are expected to cover screen time limits, the appropriate age for a first smartphone, and the use of technology in schools.
Government Seeks Advice for Parents
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said parents need clear and reliable advice on managing children’s use of technology.
She believes technology can have many benefits when used responsibly. Digital tools can support children with special educational needs and disabilities, provide personalised learning experiences, and improve educational outcomes.
Concerns About Excessive Screen Time
Despite these benefits, Phillipson warned that too much screen time can negatively affect children’s wellbeing. Concerns include:
- Reduced sleep
- Shorter attention spans
- Less time spent outdoors
- Reduced social interaction
Children’s screen time remains a growing concern for many families across the UK.
Children’s Commissioner Calls for Better Balance
Children’s Commissioner for England Dame Rachel de Souza has welcomed the review, saying many families struggle to find the right balance between screen use and other activities.
She noted that many teenagers actively seek help to reduce their screen time and often want adults to set clearer boundaries.
Gaming and Other Forms of Screen Use
The review will examine all types of screen use, including:
- Gaming
- Video streaming
- Educational technology
- Mobile device use
The goal is to better understand both the benefits and risks associated with children’s screen time.
Technology in Schools Under Review
The government is also seeking feedback on how screens and digital devices are used in schools.
Ministers want to identify areas where technology can improve learning while ensuring it does not negatively impact children’s development or wellbeing.
Educational Benefits of Technology
Skills Minister Jacqui Smith said the review focuses on screen use as a whole rather than social media alone.
Many classroom activities rely on digital devices and online resources, which can offer valuable learning opportunities when used appropriately. read more
Separate Review on Social Media Restrictions
The government is conducting a separate review to determine whether it should restrict social media access for children under 16.”
Proposed Measures Being Considered
The review explored several possible measures, including:
- Banning social media for under-16s
- Restricting addictive app features
- Strengthening parental controls
- Improving online safety protections
More than 110,000 responses were submitted, and the government is expected to publish its findings soon.
Starmer Urges Tech Firms to Protect Children Online
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has called on technology companies to take stronger action to protect children online.
He urged tech firms to prevent children from sending, receiving, or viewing explicit images online. If companies fail to act voluntarily, the government may introduce new legislation. know more
Making Technology Safer for Young Users
Starmer argued that technology should serve society’s needs instead of forcing people to adapt to harmful digital environments.”
Children’s online safety and screen use remain key priorities for policymakers.
Existing Screen Time Recommendations
Earlier government guidance advised parents to limit screen time for children under five to no more than one hour per day.
It also recommended that children under two should not use screens without supervision.
Smartphone Ban in Schools
Ministers are also moving forward with plans to introduce a legal ban on smartphones in schools across England.
The new guidance expected later this year will provide parents, schools, and carers with practical advice on helping children develop healthy and balanced technology habits.
