Amid growing concerns about the impact of screen time on young children, Singapore has unveiled stringent guidelines to protect the cognitive and emotional development of its youngest citizens. The new policy, part of a broader national health initiative, aims to foster healthier lifestyles for children up to 12 years old.

Empowering Parents and Educators for Healthier Generations

In an era dominated by digital devices, Singapore’s latest move represents a significant shift in how society views screen exposure for infants and toddlers. This article delves into the rationale behind these measures, the implications for families and schools, and the global context of similar initiatives.

Protecting Infants from Screen Exposure

The Ministry of Health (MOH) has issued clear directives prohibiting screen use for children under 18 months. Background screen exposure—such as having a television on during meals—is also discouraged. Research indicates that early exposure can hinder cognitive development, leading to issues like shorter attention spans and delayed language acquisition. For instance, studies have shown that excessive screen time can disrupt neural pathways critical for language skills. Experts emphasize that this period is crucial for brain development, making it imperative to limit distractions that could impede natural learning processes. By focusing on face-to-face interactions, parents can foster stronger bonds and promote healthier development.

Guidelines for Older Children

Children aged three to six are advised to limit screen time to less than one hour daily, while those aged seven to twelve should restrict usage to two hours. These recommendations aim to balance the benefits of technology with the need for physical activity, social interaction, and adequate sleep. Schools play a pivotal role in enforcing these guidelines. Pre-schools must adhere to an updated Code of Practice, ensuring screens are used only for educational purposes. For example, interactive storytelling and digital art creation can enhance learning without over-relying on passive consumption. Schools are encouraged to find creative ways to engage students meaningfully, avoiding the use of screens as mere time-fillers.

Enforcing Compliance and Supporting Educators

The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) will closely monitor pre-schools to ensure compliance. In the initial six months, ECDA will offer guidance to institutions that may struggle with the transition. Persistent offenders risk regulatory actions to safeguard children's well-being. To assist educators, ECDA plans to update its guide by March, providing practical examples of purposeful screen use. This includes leveraging educational websites and apps that align with curriculum goals. By equipping teachers with the right tools, the agency aims to create a balanced approach that integrates technology effectively without compromising child development.

School Policies on Device Management

Primary and secondary schools have also received detailed guidelines on managing student device usage. Mobile phones must be stored in designated areas before lessons begin, and devices can only be used in specific zones during breaks or after school. This strategy reflects the nuanced approach required for older children who benefit from digital platforms but need boundaries to prevent overuse. Schools like Temasek Primary have already implemented such policies, emphasizing the importance of character and citizenship education (CCE) to teach responsible online behavior. By integrating CCE into the curriculum, schools help students navigate the digital world safely.

Global Trends and Local Insights

Singapore’s initiative aligns with global efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of excessive screen time. Countries like Brazil and Australia have enacted laws restricting smartphone use in schools and banning social media access for minors. Locally, cohort studies highlight strong correlations between screen use and developmental delays, underscoring the urgency of these measures.One recent study by the Institute of Mental Health found that nearly half of Singaporeans aged 15 to 21 exhibited problematic smartphone use. Dr. Ong Say How, a senior consultant at IMH, stressed the need for parental involvement in modeling appropriate screen habits. Parents like Mr. Junior Ong recognize the importance of limiting screen time to foster meaningful family interactions and promote healthier lifestyles.