Surgeon General Advisory Urges Limits on Children's Screen Time

U.S. surgeon general's office recommends that parents, schools, and government officials reduce children's exposure to screens. The report outlines suggested time limits and policy steps but does not include enforcement mechanisms. Health Secretary Robert F.

Kennedy Jr. is issuing the advisory, according to a draft reviewed by STAT. The document states that some patterns of screen use "can pose real harm to children" and calls for coordinated action across families, schools, and all levels of government.

" It proposes that devices display warnings before each use and include features that nudge users to stop. No specific plan for requiring these changes is included. Schools are encouraged to adopt "bell-to-bell" phone restrictions. Health providers are advised to ask about screen use during annual visits.

Policymakers are asked to create age requirements for some platforms and fund additional research. " Suggested limits are none for children under 18 months, less than one hour per day for children under six, and two hours per day for ages six to 18.

The advisory acknowledges that evidence on screen use impacts is still evolving. " The report does not reference a prior advisory issued under the Biden administration. Stephanie Haridopolos was given authority to issue advisories after being elevated by Kennedy to perform the duties of surgeon general in the absence of a Senate-confirmed nominee.