Singapore Introduces Strict Screen Time Rules for Kids: No Devices at Meals

SINGAPORE – Avoiding Screens for Young Children: New Guidelines Unveiled:

Children under 18 months should not be exposed to screens or even have them running in the background, according to updated recommendations from Singapore’s Ministry of Health (MOH). Background screen use refers to instances where devices such as televisions are switched on, even if the child isn’t actively watching.

These revised guidelines, part of a broader health strategy called Grow Well SG, were introduced on January 21. Targeting children up to 12 years old, the initiative aims to instill healthier habits early on, with plans to extend these measures to adolescents in the future. Previously, the guidelines advised reducing screen time and minimizing background exposure. However, new research has strengthened the link between screen use and developmental challenges, prompting the need for stricter measures.

Why This Matters:

In a joint statement, MOH, the Ministry of Education (MOE), and the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) emphasized the growing health risks posed by sedentary lifestyles in Singaporean children. Factors like excessive screen time, poor nutrition, lack of sleep, and insufficient physical activity are contributing to these risks.

The Grow Well SG strategy promotes healthier behaviors by involving families, schools, healthcare providers, and the wider community. Speaking at Temasek Primary School during the launch, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung explained that research now shows a clearer connection between screen exposure and cognitive development in children.

“We need decisive action to shape how children interact with devices,” he said, highlighting the influence of screen use on physical activity, social engagement, and emotional well-being. The updated guidance now even prohibits background screen use, such as keeping the TV on during meals.

Updated Recommendations on Screen Use:

The guidelines provide specific advice for different age groups:

• 0-18 Months: No Screen Time, Unless It's a Video Call

• Ages 3–6: Limit screen time outside school to one hour daily. Parents are encouraged to co-view educational content and avoid screens during meals or one hour before bedtime.

• Ages 7–12: Restrict recreational screen time to under two hours daily, excluding schoolwork. Parental controls and structured screen plans are recommended, and children should not have unrestricted access to devices or social media.

The initiative also includes updated practices for preschools, effective February 2025. Infants under 18 months will not be allowed any screen time, while devices for children aged 18 months to six years will be limited to teaching and learning purposes. The Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) will monitor compliance and provide guidance for preschools that fail to adhere.

Schools Step In:

To manage screen use in primary and secondary schools, the MOE has introduced detailed policies. These include designated phone storage areas and restricting mobile use to certain times and spaces, like during recess or after classes. Secondary schools may allow more flexibility for digital learning, but phones are generally not permitted during lessons.

The strategy also incorporates personalized health plans for Primary 1 to 3 students during health screenings. These plans include lifestyle recommendations, vaccination details, and referrals to healthcare providers when necessary.

Learning from Other Nations:

Singapore is not alone in addressing the challenges of excessive screen use among children. Countries like Brazil and Australia have introduced laws to limit smartphone access for young people. Brazil recently banned smartphone use in elementary and high schools, while Australia has implemented one of the strictest regulations, barring children under 16 from accessing social media.

France has also taken steps by banning phones in schools for students under 15 to encourage a "digital detox." Other nations, like Indonesia, are exploring similar restrictions to safeguard children’s mental and emotional well-being.

The Role of Parents and Communities:

Parents play an essential role in setting an example for healthy screen use. Experts emphasize the importance of engaging children in meaningful, offline activities to counter the lure of digital devices. Initiatives like Balance Bike SG and The Resonance Project provide families with opportunities to explore screen-free hobbies, from cycling competitions to music lessons.

Educators and early childhood professionals also recognize the value of integrating technology thoughtfully. Cheryl Chang, a principal at M.Y World Preschool, explained that devices like iPads and talking pens are used sparingly for educational purposes, ensuring they complement—rather than replace—human interaction.

Looking Ahead:

The Grow Well SG strategy is a timely response to the growing influence of technology on children’s lives. By fostering healthier habits through collective efforts, Singapore hopes to create an environment where children can thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally—both in the digital age and beyond.

References:

1. Goh, Timothy. "No Devices for Kids at Meals and Turn off the TV: S'pore Issues Stricter Screen Use Guidelines." The Straits Times, January 19, 2025. https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/no-devices-for-kids-at-meals-and-turn-off-the-tv-spore-issues-stricter-screen-use-guidelines.

2. Channel NewsAsia. "S'pore Issues Stricter Guidelines on Screen Use for Kids, Teens." Channel NewsAsia, January 19, 2025. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/screen-use-digital-devices-health-guidelines-children-teens-preschools-restrict-4884816.

3. Yong, Vernice. "New Guidelines for Kids' Screen Usage in Singapore." Vulcan Post, January 19, 2025. https://vulcanpost.com/879637/screen-usage-kids-guidelines-singapore/.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Sai Sindhuja K/MSM)