Key Facts

• Screen time for babies under two may cause developmental problems like less bonding with parents, reduced physical play, and slower language skills.
• The study says screens can lead to overstimulation, sleep troubles, eye health issues, and childhood obesity.
• It is the biggest review of global research on this topic and found no strong proof linking screens to specific conditions but stressed risks from regular use.
• The current advice to avoid screen time except for shared activities might be misunderstood as safe, causing more screen use by parents and caregivers.
• Researchers want the government to rethink screen time rules for under-twos and create a screening system to help families with vulnerable children.
• Parents often lack guidance on managing their own and their babies’ screen habits, which may teach children unhealthy screen relationships.
• There is concern about relying on screens to soothe babies instead of parental comfort.
• Experts say parents should not be blamed for this issue alone and call for better family support and communication.