Cut screen time in class ‘for sake of pupil health’

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, October 13, 2026

A coalition of over 150 healthcare experts has called on UK government officials to reduce classroom screen time, citing evidence that excessive digital device use is linked to speech delays, eyesight issues, and other developmental problems in children. They warn that without immediate policy changes and safety evaluations, the unchecked use of educational technology—now widespread and costly—could cause long-term health consequences for millions of pupils.

A coalition of over 150 healthcare professionals has urged British government officials to reduce screen time in classrooms, citing growing concerns over the impact of digital device use on children’s physical and developmental health. The group, which includes paediatricians, speech and language therapists, ophthalmologists, audiologists, and physiotherapists, addressed a letter to Education Secretary Lucy Powell and Health Secretary Yvette Cooper, warning of a worsening “crisis” related to speech delays, eyesight problems, and other health issues among pupils.

The letter highlights that the widespread introduction of tablets, laptops, interactive whiteboards, and headphones in schools surged during the COVID-19 pandemic but has not been subsequently curtailed. Research cited by the clinicians indicates that many students now spend more time on screens during the school day than is recommended for their overall daily exposure. They stress that these educational technologies have not undergone thorough, child-centered safety evaluations to assess their cumulative effects on children's eyes, ears, or speech development.

According to the letter, nearly one million pupils use digital devices in every lesson, while an additional 2.6 million students engage with screens daily as part of their learning. The educational sector in England reportedly spends about £900 million annually on technology, much of which includes artificial intelligence components, yet no specific government regulations or health oversight are in place.

The clinicians emphasize that while consumer products such as medicines, foods, and toys are subject to rigorous safety checks before reaching children, education technology lacks comparable scrutiny. They warn that ongoing high levels of screen use risk exacerbating developmental delays and health problems if immediate action is not taken.

Particular concern was expressed over the use of one-to-one digital devices in early years education, noting that language acquisition relies heavily on rich, face-to-face interactions—a dynamic screens cannot replicate. The letter calls for a national reassessment of screen time policies within schools to protect children’s long-term well-being.

The professionals stressed that they expect to be treating the consequences of current educational technology practices throughout their careers unless changes are implemented. This appeal underscores a growing discourse on balancing the benefits of digital learning tools with the developmental needs of young learners.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.