Cut screen time in classrooms to avoid long-term health issues, government urged
Summary
A group of over 150 health professionals warned that too much screen time in England’s classrooms may harm children’s health, including their eyesight and development. They asked government leaders to reduce screen use in schools and said current tablet and laptop use lacks proper understanding of long-term effects.Key Facts
- More than 150 doctors and specialists wrote a letter to the UK Education and Health Secretaries about concerns over screen time in schools.
- Nearly one million children in England use screens for most lessons, possibly leading to more short-sightedness.
- Research shows childhood short-sightedness rose from around 24% in 1990 to almost 36% by 2023 worldwide.
- The clinicians say children are being prescribed glasses, hearing aids, and speech therapy for problems worsened by screen use.
- Children with special educational needs are more likely to have screen-based learning, according to the letter.
- The government is creating new guidance for screen use in children aged five to 18 and is reviewing safety rules for AI and technology in schools.
- England recently banned smartphones in schools during the day, making schools responsible for enforcing this rule.
- Some health experts say screen use may reduce sleep and affect children’s ability to think critically.
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