UK plans first screen-use guidance for children aged 5 to 16

The UK government plans to publish its first national guidance on smartphone and screen use for children aged 5 to 16.

The guidance is being developed by the Department for Education and the Department of Health and Social Care. It is expected to be published this autumn and will provide parents with practical advice on screen time, social media, sleep, and smartphone use.

A three-week call for evidence has been launched to examine how children use digital devices at home and in school. The review is supported by an independent expert group co-chaired by Children’s Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza and Professor Russell Viner.

The government said the guidance will recognise that technology can support learning, creativity, and inclusion, including for children with special educational needs and disabilities. It will focus on helping families make informed decisions rather than introducing a general ban on digital devices.

Ministers are also considering additional online safety measures, including app curfews, time limits, and other tools that could help reduce harmful or excessive use.

Separate plans for technology in education include possible safety certification for certain products used in schools and the creation of an AI Youth Advisory Board.

The call for evidence will inform the final guidance, which is due to be published in autumn 2026.