Screen time
Resources, guidance and information for education practitioners, learners, and families on screen time.
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What you need to know
Screen time is the amount of time spent using any device with a screen such as smartphones, tablets, computers or games consoles. Balancing screen time has become an important consideration to ensure that children and young people use technology in a positive and healthy way.
Screen time when managed correctly can be educational, informative, and a great way for children to staying in touch with friends and family. It only becomes an issue if children and young people become dependent on it and it starts affecting other things in their life.
Generative AI algorithms analyse user data to recommend personalised content. While this can enhance user experience, it may lead to some children spending more time on their devices.
Too much screen time can affect children’s behaviour, sleep and concentration. It can also lead to less physical activity and social interaction.
Resources
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Learning and teaching resources
Resources to support schools and the wider school community with screen time.
Information for children and young people
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Online issues and worries: screen time and healthy balance
Information which explains some risks to be aware of and where to go for help.
Further information
- Ofcom: Children and parents: media use and attitudes report 2023
- Parenting. Give it time: Balancing screen time
- Childnet: Screen time and healthy balance
- Apple: Use Screen Time on your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch
- Microsoft: Set screen time limits across devices
- Family guide to talking about screen time
- Practitioner’s guide to infinite scroll
- Family guide to understanding infinite scroll
- Governor's guide to understanding infinite scroll
- Infinite scroll: primary
- Infinite scroll: secondary
