after research suggested that long periods spent watching screens may be linked to weaker speech development.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson is expected to announce on Monday that the advice will be created with input from parents, children and early years professionals.
In an article for the Sunday Times, Phillipson said research indicates that by the age of two, around 98% of children use screens such as phones, tablets or television every day — during a key stage for language development.
Government findings published alongside the announcement suggest that screen use in under-twos is associated with poorer language outcomes. A survey of 4,758 parents found that children with the highest screen time — roughly five hours a day — were able to say noticeably fewer words than those with much lower exposure, averaging around 44 minutes.
Phillipson said parents, teachers and nursery staff have raised concerns that more children are arriving at nursery and school finding it harder to hold conversations, concentrate, or engage fully in learning.
Reports suggest the guidance may recommend using screens in a more structured way, such as during storytime or for educational games, rather than passive viewing. It is also expected to be supported by advice for parents on early years development, including speech and language.
The issue of whether screen time is harmful remains debated, and has attracted growing public attention. The Princess of Wales previously warned that constant device use was creating an “epidemic of disconnection” in family life. Former technology secretary Peter Kyle also previously explored the idea of limiting children to two hours a day per social media platform, although this was not introduced.
Other countries have taken tougher approaches. Australia brought in a law in December banning under-16s from holding social media accounts, though reports suggest some young people have found ways around the restrictions. Some MPs have argued the UK should consider similar action.
The government will publish the terms of reference for a national working group on Monday. The group will be led by Children’s Commissioner Dame Rachel de Souza, alongside scientific adviser Professor Russell Viner, with initial guidance expected in April.
Phillipson said she wants the guidance to be developed with families rather than imposed on them, adding that it will focus on practical ways screens can fit alongside the activities that matter most in early childhood — including talking, playing and reading together.
