Liverpool City Council has launched a citywide initiative to standardise advice on digital screen use for children, bringing together health, education, and youth services. The strategy aims to provide parents with practical, evidence-based support to navigate the complexities of social media and technology in a domestic setting.
At a summit held on Friday 1 May 2026, local organisations reviewed evidence regarding the impact of digital devices on child development. The move follows recent national guidance on screen use in early years and a commitment to statutory guidance for schools. Liverpool’s local approach seeks to interpret these national standards into realistic advice that reflects the daily lives of families across the city.
Age-specific limits for Liverpool’s youngest residents
The new guidance establishes clear parameters for screen time based on developmental stages. For babies and children under the age of two, the council advises that screen use should be avoided entirely, with the exception of shared activities that promote bonding, such as video calls with relatives. For children aged between two and five, the recommendation is to limit screen time to approximately one hour per day.
Public health officials emphasized that social media platforms and AI-enabled tools are not designed for young children and should be avoided in early childhood. The guidance also reinforces the concept that “not all screen use is equal.” Evidence presented at the summit suggests that shared screen time with an engaged adult is significantly more beneficial for development than solo use. Furthermore, the council recommends prioritising slow-paced, age-appropriate content over high-stimulation media.
Balancing technology with physical development
Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, noted that while technology supports learning and creativity, unmanaged use often impacts behaviour and wellbeing. As a teacher, Doyle highlighted that parents are not seeking an anti-technology stance but rather balanced advice that works for real life. The initiative aims to provide non-judgemental support to help families keep children safe while thriving in a digital environment.
Professor Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health for Liverpool City Council, warned that screens are now an unavoidable part of life, but balance remains critical. Long periods of screen use can displace activities essential for healthy growth, including sleep, physical play, and face-to-face interaction. Experts have previously noted that exposure to artificial screens before bed can disrupt natural rhythms, making the council’s focus on evening habits particularly relevant for local families.
Citywide rollout of consistent parenting advice
The council is now working to ensure this guidance is integrated across all local services. This includes training for professionals in early years settings and schools to ensure parents receive consistent messaging. The strategy also acknowledges the essential role of screen-based assistive technologies for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), ensuring that digital tools remain inclusive where they are necessary for communication and learning.
Liverpool City Council will continue to collaborate with regional partners to develop a shared evidence base. This ongoing work is intended to support parents and carers with realistic advice that evolves alongside new technological developments, such as the increasing presence of AI in educational tools. The focus remains on reducing potential harm while ensuring children benefit from technology in safe, positive ways.
Source: Liverpool City Council
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