29/09/2026
Screens are now a normal part of childhood. From schoolwork and educational videos to games and social media, children spend a lot of time online.
But a major review involving more than 2.8 million children has raised some things parents may want to pay attention to.
1. Academic Performance ๐
Higher screen exposure was associated with lower overall academic achievement.
This doesnโt mean screen time automatically leads to poor grades. But itโs worth asking: is screen time taking away from homework, reading, sleep or time to simply focus?
2. Language Development ๐ฃ๏ธ
Researchers also found an association between higher screen use and poorer language development.
Children need real conversations too like asking questions, telling stories, reading, listening and expressing themselves.
3. Emotional Wellbeing ๐
Greater screen exposure was linked with emotional difficulties and internalising behaviours, including symptoms associated with anxiety and depression.
So beyond asking how your child is performing in school, itโs also important to notice how theyโre feeling and behaving.
4. Social Development ๐ค
The review also identified associations with peer problems and other socioemotional difficulties.
Children need opportunities to interact, make friends, communicate and learn how to navigate relationships not just through a screen, but in the real world too.
5. Itโs not simply about banning screens.
Screens arenโt automatically the problem.
What children are doing on them matters too. Educational content, homework, games and endless scrolling can have very different purposes and effects.
The goal is balance.
Ask yourself: What is my childโs screen time replacing?
Sleep? Reading? Homework? Family conversations? Outdoor play? Time with friends?
