UK safeguarding
Screen time
The amount of time spent using a device with a screen, including phones, tablets, computers, and televisions.
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.
Related
Risks and topics
Sources
- Screen time and children— Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
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