Screen time harm to children is unproven, say experts

There is no strong evidence to support fears that screen time is inherently bad for children, experts have warned, adding that the recognition of so-called gaming disorder by the World Health Organisation is premature. Time spent using devices ranging from computers to smartphones and televisions has been the subject of debate after the UK's culture secretary Matt Hancock called for parents to set boundaries for their children on the use of tech. "Unlimited and unsupervised access to smartphones can be a portal to some very serious risks. And the chief medical officer has highlighted growing concerns around the impact on children's mental health. This backs up every parent's instinct; that children must be protected," he said.