Israel's Health Ministry Recommends Screen Time Limits for Children

Israel's Ministry of Health has released its first-ever recommendations for parents on limiting children's screen time, citing a surge in addiction rates among students. The guidelines suggest delaying smartphone acquisition until age 13, and even then, ensuring devices lack social media access. Basic mobile phones, not smartphones, can be provided between ages 9 and 11, depending on the child's communication needs and maturity. Social media use is advised only from age 15 onwards, with parental supervision. For daily screen time, the ministry recommends no exposure for infants under two, one hour daily for ages two to five, less than two hours for ages six to nine, and up to three hours for ages 10 to 12.

Dr. Sharon Levy, head of the Health Promotion and Education Department, emphasized the importance of "screen-free times" during family meals and the hour before bed, and keeping screens out of bedrooms to improve sleep hygiene. Excessive screen exposure is linked to sleep disturbances, increased risk of obesity, impaired early language development, and worsened mental health, including depression, anxiety, body image issues, and fear of missing out.

Director-General Moshe Bar Siman Tov stated that the ministry views this issue as critically important for public health, particularly mental well-being. He acknowledged the reality that screens are part of modern life and the goal is to find the right balance. These recommendations are based on 2025 research data showing approximately 16% of Israeli students are addicted to social media, with nearly 30% spending over six hours daily on screens.

Beyond an upcoming public awareness campaign, Bar Siman Tov revealed that an inter-ministerial committee will be formed to explore regulatory and legislative measures to protect children and teens online. The committee will examine age-based hour restrictions, company regulations, and the impact of algorithms and targeted advertising on increasing screen time. Dr. Gilad Bodenheimer, head of the Mental Health Division, urged parents to be present and serve as role models, noting that current parenting strategies need adaptation for the digital age.