UK Study Links Screen Time Before Age Two to Long-Term Health and Developmental Issues

A comprehensive review conducted by researchers from four UK universities found that intentional screen exposure before the age of two may be associated with various long-term health and developmental difficulties. These include sleep problems, obesity, eye health issues, and challenges in forming social connections. The study analyzed recent global research on screen time for infants under two and its impact on later development, concluding that early screen exposure correlates with widespread developmental problems.

Researchers noted that affected children later exhibited sleep disturbances, increased obesity rates, impaired eye health, reduced desire and time spent playing with peers, and difficulties bonding with parents and caregivers. Some infants turned to screens for comfort and calming instead of engaging with adults. Lead researcher Reef Clayton, a senior lecturer in communication and media at the University of Leeds, emphasized that without proper guidance, parents unintentionally teach unhealthy screen habits to young children, stating, "This must change."

Described as the most extensive global review on the topic to date, the study urges governments to reconsider screen time guidelines for children under five. It recommends that no child under two should have regular intentional screen time, as passive exposure is socially unavoidable, but adding deliberate screen use increases risks without significant benefits.