Screen Time: Finding a Healthy Balance for Children
Managing screen time can feel challenging for many families, particularly as digital devices are now a normal part of everyday life. In March 2026, the UK government published updated guidance to help parents support children’s health, learning, and wellbeing while encouraging balanced and thoughtful screen use.
At Devonshire House Preparatory School, we know that early childhood is a vital time for developing language, attention, emotional wellbeing, and social skills. Children learn these skills best through play, movement, conversation, reading, and meaningful interactions with others. Too much screen time can sometimes reduce opportunities for these important experiences, particularly physical play and sleep.
The guidance suggests avoiding screen use for children under two where possible, except for shared activities such as video calls with family. For children aged two to five, parents are encouraged to aim for no more than one hour per day. These are intended as sensible guidelines rather than strict rules and do not apply in the same way to screen‑based assistive technology used to support children with SEND.
It is also important to remember that not all screen use is the same. Choosing calm, age‑appropriate programmes and games can make a significant difference. Watching together and talking about what your child is seeing helps them understand and learn far more than watching alone. Where possible, fast‑paced or overly stimulating content is best avoided.
Screens before bedtime can make it harder for children to settle and sleep well, so screen‑free bedtime routines are strongly recommended. Children also learn from what they see around them; putting phones away and reducing background television during family time sends a powerful message.
Screens are a part of modern family life, and small, consistent changes can help children develop healthy habits that support their wellbeing and readiness to learn.
Recommended Screen Time Guidelines
- Under 2 years: Avoid screen time where possible, except for shared activities such as video calling with family.
- Ages 2–5: Aim for no more than one hour per day.
- Avoid screens at mealtimes
- Avoid screens in the hour before bedtime
Thank you for supporting us in promoting healthy routines that help children at Devonshire House thrive both at home and at school.
Mrs Laney
SENCO (Early Years and KS1)
