How much screen time is healthy for my child?

There is no single magic number. The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health suggests judging whether screens get in the way of sleep, physical activity, schoolwork, meals, and family time, rather than counting minutes. NHS advice supports age-appropriate limits, regular breaks, and screen-free time before bed. Agreeing a family plan together tends to work best.

How do I manage screen time without constant arguments?

Agree clear, consistent rules together, such as device-free meals and no screens an hour before bed, and use built-in tools like Apple Screen Time or Google Family Link to support them rather than to police every minute. Model the habits yourself, focus on what is being watched and why, and build in offline activities your child enjoys.

UK safeguarding

Screen time

The amount of time spent using a device with a screen, including phones, tablets, computers, and televisions.

Screen time is the total time spent using devices with screens such as phones, tablets, computers, and televisions, where the quality and timing of use matters more for wellbeing than the raw number of minutes.

In plain English

The amount of time spent using a device with a screen, including phones, tablets, computers, and televisions.

Why it matters

Quality of use matters more than total minutes. The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health asks families to consider whether screens displace sleep, movement, schoolwork, and time together. NHS guidance supports age-appropriate limits and regular breaks.

Risks and topics

screen time

Sources

Screen time and children— Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health

Frequently Asked Questions

This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.

Last reviewed: 2026-05-17

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