Sweden has joined a growing list of countries advocating for reduced screen time for young children. The Scandinavian nation’s public health agency recently recommended that kids under 2 avoid all digital screens, including televisions. This advice comes from many places worldwide reassessing how screen time impacts young children, especially after increased use during the coronavirus lockdowns when remote learning and home entertainment options surged.
Sweden’s Recommendations
According to Sweden’s new guidelines, toddlers should avoid screens entirely. As children age, the recommendations ease slightly: those aged 2 to 5 should have no more than an hour of screen time per day, while kids aged 6 to 12 are advised to limit their screen time to two hours daily. For teenagers, the suggested maximum is three hours per day.
These recommendations are based on research indicating that excessive screen use can lead to poorer sleep, depression, and reduced physical activity among children.
Global Perspective
Other countries have also issued similar guidelines. For instance, France has the strictest recommendations, advising that children under three should avoid screens altogether. This guidance was part of a report commissioned by President Emmanuel Macron and released earlier this year.
In contrast, Ireland and the U.S. allow video calls with family and friends for very young children, while Canada, Australia, and Sweden maintain a stricter stance without these exceptions.
Cellphone Policies in U.S. Schools
In the U.S., many schools have implemented cellphone bans, utilizing pouches, lockers, and bins to enforce these rules. However, enforcement can be inconsistent, and students often find ways around the restrictions, like hiding phones. Concerns have also been raised about these bans potentially cutting off communication in emergencies, such as school shootings.
Experts argue they aren’t a complete solution despite the increasing adoption of cellphone bans. They suggest encouraging outdoor activities and extracurricular pursuits could provide healthier alternatives to screen time and offer students opportunities to discuss sensitive topics without fear of online backlash.
Why It Matters
A 2023 UNESCO report highlights the trade-offs of digital technology in education. While technology can enhance learning and foster connections, it also poses risks to socialization, physical health, and mental well-being. The report emphasizes the need for regulations to address issues like unauthorized data use, misinformation, and online hate speech, noting that these challenges could outweigh the benefits of digital tools.
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics found a potential link between high screen time and developmental delays in young children, particularly in communication and problem-solving skills.
Tech Industry and Social Media Concerns
There’s growing concern about the impact of social media and digital technology on teens. Last fall, multiple U.S. states, including California and New York, sued Meta Platforms Inc., the owner of Instagram and Facebook, accusing the company of contributing to the youth mental health crisis through addictive design features.
In January, executives from Meta, TikTok, and other social media companies testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee about the adverse effects of their platforms on young users. Sweden’s public health agency is now calling on tech companies to adjust their algorithms to prevent children from endlessly scrolling or being exposed to harmful content.
