Parents have been told to limit children’s screen time – but is it easier said than done?
Parents have been told to limit children’s screen time – but is it easier said than done?
The UK government recently introduced updated recommendations urging parents to control their children’s screen exposure. According to the guidelines, toddlers under two should avoid screens without supervision, while those aged five and younger should not exceed one hour of screen use daily. These suggestions emphasize “screen swaps” — replacing screen time with activities like storytelling or interactive play. Yet, for many parents, this advice proves challenging to implement.
Errol Murray, a father and founder of Leeds Dads, has made it his mission to help families disconnect from digital devices. Every Saturday, he leads his 10-year-old son Isaac and a group of local fathers on adventures, such as exploring nature or participating in soft play sessions that include a complimentary meal. “It’s a refreshing alternative to being glued to screens,” he explains, highlighting shifts in his son’s behavior. Despite the effort, Errol notes that children often react negatively to screen-free transitions: “They get angry, upset, or agitated when asked to stop. You need something compelling to draw them away from phones, tablets, and screens.”
Rebuilding Connections
Errol’s group frequently engages in park walks, which his son enjoys, especially when allowed to bring his remote-controlled car. “Active involvement with your kids replaces passive screen time,” he says, underscoring the value of real-time interaction. As the Leeds Dads network expands, parents express difficulty in balancing technology use with meaningful family engagement.
A recent National Literacy Trust study revealed a 25% decline in parents who engage in daily play with their children since 2019. Researchers at Durham University and the University of East Anglia tracked over 6,000 hours of language exposure across 163 infants and toddlers, focusing on the quality of in-person conversations rather than screen-based listening. Using MRI scans, they discovered that children exposed to richer interactions showed improved myelin development, enhancing neural communication efficiency.
“The number of words a child hears during early years literally shapes their brain. Every interaction matters, and it’s never too late to start,” says Dr. Samuel Forbes, lead researcher.
Kirsty MacDonald, director of early years at the National Literacy Trust, points to systemic barriers for low-income families. “Many lack the support, tools, and time to foster language and literacy development,” she notes. Factors like demanding work schedules and the high cost of local activities make it hard for parents to cut back on screen time. Yet, some still use technology to bond. Sam, another Leeds Dads participant, shares his approach: “We incorporate screens creatively. My children, aged five and six, now join me in producing music on my tablet.”
While routines are disrupted by fatigue, Sam acknowledges the struggle: “There are moments when everyone is tired, and the best option is to watch TV together.” Despite these hurdles, communities continue to find innovative solutions to promote healthier, more engaging family interactions.
