'I'd never get anything done': Parents on limiting screen time for under-5s

Government health officials have issued new guidance recommending limits on screen time for children under 5, sparking pushback from parents who say the restrictions are impractical for modern family life. Parents argue that while they understand the intent behind the recommendation, adhering to strict screen-time caps would make managing household tasks and childcare nearly impossible. The guidance reflects broader health concerns about excessive screen exposure's effects on young children's development, including impacts on sleep, attention span, and physical activity. Parents acknowledge the need to be mindful of screen use but contend that any policy must account for real-world parenting challenges, including work-from-home arrangements and single-parent households. The tension highlights the gap between medical recommendations and the lived experience of families trying to balance screen limits with practical necessity.