When excessive screen time is a headache for parents around the world, the Singapore government has stepped forward to limit children’s use of screen time.
As part of a wider multi-agency health initiative launched on Tuesday, Singapore introduced tougher measures to regulate children’s screen use in schools and preschools. These measures aim to promote healthy lifestyles and protect children’s development by eliminating excessive screen time and sedentary lifestyles.
Starting February 1, pre-schools will have rules banning screen use for children under 18 months and limiting screen time for children aged 18 months to six years to educational purposes only. According to a joint statement from the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Social and Family Development, educators will prioritize “meaningful experiences” over sedentary activities, such as prolonged screen use and sitting.
Elementary and middle schools are also taking similar measures. Students will now be required to store their phones in designated areas during class. Device use will be limited to specific times and locations, such as during recess or after hours, to minimize distraction during instructional sessions.
In addition to the school rules, the Ministry of Health has updated its guidance for parents on screen time. For for children ages three to six, screen use should be limited to less than one hour per dayexcept for school activities. For children between the ages of seven and 12, screen time should not exceed two hours a dayexcept for schoolwork. Parents are strongly advised to limit their children’s access to mobile devices and social media platforms to reduce potential risks associated with overuse.
Ministries highlighted the risks associated with excessive screen time, citing research showing its detrimental effects on children’s cognitive development, language skills, mental well-being and physical health. While most children in Singapore are healthy, prolonged screen use and sedentary lifestyles pose a significant threat to their overall growth and development.
“These measures are part of Grow Well SG, a new national health promotion strategy launched by the three ministries. The initiative aims to promote healthy lifestyles and preventive care for children, emphasizing improvements in nutrition, sleep habits, learning experiences and physical activity,” Xinhua news agency reported.
Now the initiative is aimed at children under the age of 12. However, ministries have announced plans to expand the program in the future to include older age groups. This step-by-step approach ensures that the foundation for a healthier future is laid in the first critical years of development.
By taking these proactive measures, Singapore aims to stop the negative effects of excessive screen use and sedentary lifestyles, ensuring children have the best start in life. These comprehensive measures reflect the country’s commitment to promoting the health and well-being of the younger generation in the long term.
