(Updated EYFS September 2026)
Policy Statement:
At Just Little Ones Childminding, we recognise that digital technology is part of children’s everyday lives. We aim to ensure that screen use is limited, purposeful, and developmentally appropriate, prioritising children’s health, well-being, and learning. This Screen Time Policy outlines our approach in line with recent UK guidance (2026) and EYFS requirements, promoting a balanced approach to technology use.
Screen Time Guidelines:
• Screen time will be limited and used only when it supports learning or well-being.
• For children aged 2–5 years, screen time will not exceed 1 hour per day while in the setting, and will typically be much less.
• Children under 2 years will not be exposed to screen time, except for occasional interactive use (e.g. video calls with family), in line with current UK guidance.
• Screen use will not replace active play, social interaction, or outdoor experiences, which remain the priority.
Purposeful and Educational Use:
• Screens will only be used for educational, creative, or interactive purposes, such as age-appropriate apps, music, or storytelling.
• Passive viewing (e.g. watching videos for long periods) will be avoided.
• Content will be chosen to support language development, creativity, and curiosity.
Age-Appropriate Content:
• All digital content will be carefully selected and pre-approved to ensure it is suitable for children’s age and stage of development.
• Fast-paced, overstimulating, or inappropriate content (e.g. social media-style videos) will not be used.
Supervision and Engagement:
• Children will be fully supervised during any screen use.
• Childminders will actively engage with children, discussing content and encouraging interaction, rather than allowing passive use.
Health and Well-being:
• Screen time will not take place during mealtimes or close to sleep/rest times.
• Regular breaks will be ensured, and children will be encouraged to engage in physical activity and outdoor play.
• The setting promotes a healthy balance between digital and real-world experiences.
Supporting Development:
• Screen use will support, not replace, key areas of learning such as communication, physical development, and personal, social, and emotional development.
• Priority will always be given to hands-on play, reading, and social interaction.
Partnership with Parents:
• Parents will be informed about how screen time is used within the setting.
• The setting will work in partnership with parents to promote consistent and balanced screen use at home and in the setting.
• Parental consent will be obtained for any screen-based activities where appropriate.
Safeguarding:
• Devices used by children will be secure, password-protected, and appropriately filtered.
• Children will not have access to the internet or devices without supervision.
• Any concerns relating to inappropriate content or screen use will be addressed immediately and shared with parents.
Alignment with EYFS 2026 Guidance:
• This policy reflects updated UK guidance on screen time, particularly limits for under-fives.
• It supports EYFS principles by promoting:
- Active learning and play
- Strong relationships and interaction
- Children’s health and well-being
• Screen use is carefully managed to ensure it enhances, rather than detracts from, children’s development.
Review and Monitoring:
• This policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if guidance changes.
• Feedback from parents and ongoing reflection will be used to improve practice.
Signed: Jemma & Dale Ferriday
Date: April 2026
Review Date: April 2027