Sweden’s public health authority, Folkhälsomyndigheten, has released updated guidelines stressing that children under two years old should avoid screen time entirely. This recommendation, announced at the start of the new school year, is part of a broader initiative to address the growing concerns over the impact of excessive digital media on young people. The guidelines also suggest that teenagers should limit their screen time to no more than three hours per day. This move aims to reduce the adverse effects of prolonged screen use, such as diminished physical activity and exposure to potentially harmful content.
According to Helena Frielingsdorf, a doctor and investigator at Folkhälsomyndigheten, screen time can interfere with crucial activities such as sleep, exercise, and personal interactions. The authority recommends basic digital hygiene practices, including avoiding screens before bedtime and keeping smartphones and tablets out of bedrooms. These measures are designed to help children develop healthier habits by prioritizing physical activity, personal relationships, and academic work over screen time.
The guidelines also outline specific limits based on age. For children aged 2 to 5 years, screen time should not exceed one hour per day. Children aged 6 to 12 years should have no more than 1 to 2 hours of screen time, while teenagers aged 13 to 18 years should restrict their use to a maximum of 2 to 3 hours daily. The recommendations emphasize the importance of parents setting a good example by managing their own screen time and creating a balanced digital environment for their children.
This initiative reflects a growing global trend toward regulating digital media use among students. In response to mounting evidence linking excessive screen time to issues like poor sleep quality, depression, and dissatisfaction with one’s body, several countries and educational institutions have begun implementing similar measures. At least 13 U.S. states have enacted laws to limit smartphone use in schools, and schools across Europe, including Belgium, the UK, France, Norway, and the Netherlands, are adopting or trialing smartphone bans. Sweden’s guidelines align with these international efforts to promote healthier digital habits and improve overall well-being in children and adolescents.
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