A guide to screen time - under 5's (factsheet)

Series : Best start in life

Published : March 2026
Page Length : 1
Format : Factsheet A4
Supplier : N/A
Publisher : UK Health Security Agency

Digital screens are now a normal part of family life. The early years are however critical for development - 90% of a child’s brain development occurs by age 5, making it a critical period for the development of social, emotional and cognitive skills. Consequently, on Friday 27 March, the government published new, evidence-informed guidance to help parents and carers of children under 5 navigate screen time. This factsheet provides important advice on how to help little brains develop healthy screen habits.