‘Shocking’ levels of screen use among babies revealed
Over 70% of babies are regularly exposed to screens, according to new research
Last updated 8th May 2026
More than 70% of babies are exposed to screens, with one in ten regularly falling asleep while using them, a new study has found.
The research, commissioned by the 1001 Critical Days Foundation, founded by former Conservative cabinet member and South Northamptonshire MP Dame Andrea Leadsom, highlights growing concerns around early screen use.
Conducted between February and April, the study found links between higher screen time and poorer developmental outcomes, including disrupted sleep, delayed language development and behavioural issues.
Dame Andrea described the findings as “quite shocking”, particularly given World Health Organization guidance advises no screen time for children under two.
“There hadn’t been any proper information for parents on the impact of screen times on babies,” she said.
The research found that some babies are using screens “for upwards of four hours a day and even for more than 8 hours a day in some cases”.
“Parents need good, clear advice and information.”
It also identified links between higher screen use and poorer developmental outcomes, including disrupted sleep, delayed language development and behavioural issues.
Dame Andrea said early interaction between babies and caregivers is crucial for development, explaining: “The neural connections, the way the brain develops, is determined by the baby's earliest experiences.”
She warned that screen use can interfere with that bond, replacing it with what she described as a “ping pop experience of bright lights and the screen moving… instead of the sort of soothing interaction with baby and loving adult carer”.
The study also revealed that 85% of parents had received no advice about screen use from a GP, midwife or health visitor.
Dame Andrea said: “Parents need good, clear advice and information,” adding that while screens can seem like a practical solution, “parents are hard pressed” and often juggling multiple demands.
Professor Jane Murray, from the University of Northampton, said the findings reflect wider concerns among experts.
'85% of parents say they were not given any guidance on screen time by midwives, GPs or health visitors.'
“Babies and young children benefit from one-to-one interactions predominantly with their primary care or carers,” she said.
“All the time that any baby or young child is falling asleep to screens, they're missing out on those incredibly valuable and important experiences.”
She added that the first 1,001 days of a child’s life are critical, as “the brain is forming most rapidly and most powerfully for life”, meaning early experiences can have long-term effects.
Professor Murray said while more research is needed into the long-term impact of screens, the benefits of real-world interaction are already clear.
“Young children learn from interactions… and from real-world experiences.”
“We don't yet know the effects of the screen technologies,” she said. “But… we do know the benefits of spending time talking to your child, playing with your child, interacting with your child.”
She also raised concerns about the impact of adults’ own screen use. “When mums and dads are on their mobile phones, they are not present for their little children,” she said. “That is a real worry.”
Both Dame Andrea and Professor Murray stressed the need for better support and guidance for parents, without placing blame.
Dame Andrea said families need access to “information”, “not to be stigmatized”, and services that are easy to access in one place.
Professor Murray encouraged parents to focus on simple, everyday interactions instead of relying on screens.
“Reading stories from actual books… going out for a lovely walk… singing to your child… the key thing there is that the child has the mums and dads undivided attention,” she said.
She added: “Guilt’s not helpful. It’s just being proactive about trying to find those other much more valuable ways of being.”
The foundation hopes the findings will lead to clearer national guidance, improved advice from health professionals and further research into the long-term effects of screen use on young children.
For more information visit 1001 Critical Days Foundation's website.