UK Clinicians Urge Reduced Classroom Screen Time Over Health Concerns

A coalition of over 150 clinicians in England is urging the government to reduce the amount of time children spend on screens in classrooms, citing potential harm to their physical and developmental health. In an open letter addressed to the Education Secretary and Health Secretary, general practitioners, pediatricians, and other specialists stated that the widespread use of tablets and laptops in schools is occurring without a full understanding of the long-term health consequences, including effects on vision.

The clinicians reported prescribing glasses, hearing aids, and speech therapy to children for issues they believe are exacerbated by the school environment. They highlighted that nearly one million children are reportedly using screens in most lessons, which they assert is linked to an increase in short-sightedness.

Citing an analysis of 276 studies involving over 5.4 million participants globally, the clinicians noted a rise in myopia (short-sightedness) among children and adolescents from approximately 24% in 1990 to nearly 36% by 2023. They warned that this condition is associated with a higher risk of various eye health problems.

Dr. Becky Foljambe, an NHS GP and founder of Health Professionals for Safer Screens, one of the letter's signatories, told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that parents have not been given the option to opt out of what she described as "excessive" screen use in schools, potentially hindering children's educational development. She dismissed the notion that increased screen time is solely for preparing children for a digital future, stating that other essential needs like sleep, rest, and critical thinking abilities are equally important.

The letter also pointed out that children with special educational needs are disproportionately directed toward screen-based learning. "We are conscious that some of this evidence is still surfacing but the direction of travel is consistent across multiple, independent, and in some cases very large, bodies of research," the letter stated.

A spokesperson for the Department for Education acknowledged the concerns, noting that the government is developing new screen time guidance for children aged five to 18 and will consult on the safety of artificial intelligence and educational technology in schools. The spokesperson emphasized that technology can be a valuable tool for learners and teachers when used effectively.

This development follows a recent ban on smartphones in English schools, which came into effect in June, making individual schools and trusts responsible for enforcing phone-free environments throughout the school day.