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A world-first study investigating digital screen use within the first 1001 critical days – from pregnancy to two years old – calls for better guidance for parents and more thorough assessments of the risks screen time can pose to babies and infants.
Commissioned by the 1001 Critical Days Foundation, a comprehensive review of global research into babies’ screen time, alongside a survey and focus group interviews with 174 parents and caregivers, highlighted that screen time during the critical 1001 days was associated with limited language development, overstimulation, difficulty sleeping, eye health implications, increased risks of childhood obesity, and reliance on digital devices for emotional regulation.
The research was conducted by the interdisciplinary Action on Digital Device Immersive Conditions Team (iADDICT), which includes Carmen Clayton, Professor of Family and Cultural Dynamics at Leeds Trinity University, and four other academics from the Universities of Leeds, Aston, and Loughborough.
They also found that children globally are exceeding advice issued by the World Health Organization (2019) and the American Academy of Paediatrics (2024), which recommends that under-twos avoid screen use.
The focus group and survey findings revealed that 70% of children aged two and under were using screens daily, ranging from 30 minutes to 9 hours. Just over half of parents were aware of official screen guidance, including the new advice for children under five, issued by the Government in March 2026.
The research highlights the ways in which the use of digital devices has become interwoven into young families’ lives. The decision to let children use screens, and to what extent, is therefore influenced by the multiple demands that parents and carers face. Parents also reported that non-screen-based activities are hampered by costly days out and a lack of public resources, such as community centres and playgrounds.
Professor Clayton said: “This is not about blaming or shaming parents but instead recognising the complex nature of screen use during the first 1001 days. A two-pronged approach would be useful, to ensure building awareness around screen use and its implications for the under-twos, whilst also supporting parents to follow guidance.
“We found that 85% of caregivers surveyed had not received professional advice regarding their children’s screen time, and many wanted additional guidance, which empathetically reflects the realities of parenting in the digital age.”
One mother who took part in the study said: “Sometimes we are tired, we are busy or we are dealing with children who have additional needs, like my child. So, I think guidance that is realistic, flexible and supportive will be valuable for parents like me.”
Professor Clayton added: “It would be beneficial for the Government to consider how to engage with families better about children’s screen use, whilst being sensitive to the fear of judgement that many parents face when opening up about such issues.”
The researchers are calling for the creation of a baby screen time risk assessment in collaboration with policymakers, healthcare workers and early years practitioners. This could help services to provide targeted support, guide families toward interactive alternatives, and intervene where developmental vulnerabilities may be emerging.