The parents using play to stop children getting ‘trapped’ by screens

Guidance on screen limits for young children

The UK government recently introduced updated recommendations advising that children under five should have no more than one hour of screen time daily, while toddlers under two should avoid unaccompanied screen exposure. These guidelines encourage “screen swaps,” where families replace digital engagement with hands-on activities like storytelling or games. However, parents question whether this approach is as simple as it sounds, citing the difficulty of balancing technology with meaningful interaction.

Reconnecting through active engagement

Errol Murray, a founder of Leeds Dads, has made it his mission to help families break free from screens. Each Saturday, he joins his 10-year-old son Isaac and other local fathers in exploring new experiences—whether it’s searching for bugs at a lake or participating in soft play sessions that include a complimentary breakfast. “Switching off screens gives kids a chance to connect in real life,” he explains, noting how his son’s behavior has shifted since the change. “We’ve noticed that even a short reminder to stop using devices often triggers frustration; they need something more compelling to draw them away.”

“You’ve got to find something that makes them turn away from phones, screens and tablets, because you get trapped there.” – Errol Murray

Science behind the shift

A study by Durham University’s Dr Samuel Forbes and the University of East Anglia’s Prof John Spencer tracked over 6,000 hours of language exposure among 163 infants and toddlers over a week. The research emphasized the importance of in-person human interaction, rather than passive screen viewing, in shaping early brain development. By analyzing MRI scans, the team found that children exposed to richer, more engaging conversations showed greater myelin growth, which enhances neural signal efficiency. “The words a child hears in their first years literally shape their brain,” Forbes states. “Each interaction matters, no matter how small.”

Barriers to limiting screen time

Despite the benefits, many parents struggle to cut back on technology. Kirsty MacDonald, leading the early years division at the National Literacy Trust, points out that financial strain and limited access to local activities often prevent families from reducing screen use. “Families in poverty may lack the tools, knowledge, or time to foster language development through play,” she says. Yet, for some, screens still serve a purpose. Sam, a member of Leeds Dads, shares how his family uses devices creatively: “I play music on my tablet, and now my kids join in, making it a shared hobby.”

“I’ve always really loved music,” Sam says. “But when I became a dad, I struggled to find things I could do for myself. Now the kids are old enough to enjoy and appreciate it, it’s become a really beautiful thing.” – Sam

While shifting routines can be tough, especially after long days of work or school, Sam acknowledges the need for flexibility. “You have to just seize your moments,” he adds. “Sometimes, the best choice is to watch TV together when everyone is tired.” This balance highlights the ongoing effort to integrate play and technology in ways that support, rather than hinder, family bonds.