Landmark study says that screen time for babies and toddlers under the age of two may lead to long-term negative effects on health and quality of life and should be avoided.
It warns that using smartphones, tablets, and other devices at this early age could cause different developmental problems and calls for more urgent research into the risks for infants.
Researchers say that while much attention is given to teenagers’ use of technology, younger children are being overlooked, creating a “baby blind spot” in policy as screens have become a normal part of parenting.
Rafe Clayton, a senior lecturer at the University of Leeds who co-led the study, said parents, without proper guidance on their own screen habits, are unknowingly encouraging unhealthy relationships between babies and screens. He said this situation needs to change.
The study is described as the most detailed review so far of global research on the topic. It urges the government to rethink its current advice for children under five.
Current guidance suggests avoiding screens for children under two, except for shared activities that involve interaction and bonding.
However, the new research warns that even shared or guided screen use may still carry risks if misunderstood by parents as being completely safe.
The study highlights several possible harms, including reduced bonding with parents, less physical play, slower language development, and less interaction with other children.
It also says screen exposure at this age may lead to overstimulation, sleep problems, eye strain, and a higher risk of childhood obesity. Some children may also start relying on screens for comfort instead of their parents.
Researchers did not prove a direct cause-and-effect link but strongly recommend that under-twos should not have regular intentional screen time, since there is no proven benefit at that age.
They also warn that guidance suggesting limited or “shared screen time” could be misunderstood and lead parents to think it is fully safe.
The team is calling for a new “baby screen-time risk assessment” to help support families where early developmental concerns may appear.
Experts involved in the study say the government should help parents more carefully talk about screen use without making them feel judged.
Former minister Andrea Leadsom said the findings are a warning and stressed that early childhood, especially the first 1,001 days, is very important for development.
She added that parents should not be blamed and that support services and technology companies also have responsibility.
The children’s commissioner for England said the guidance is meant to support parents, not replace their judgment, and that limited shared screen use like video calls can be normal in some situations.
The Department for Education said it stands by its screen time guidance, calling it clear and helpful for families.
