In September 2026 the medical journal JAMA Pediatrics published the largest review so far of research on children's screen time. Researchers at the University of Calgary combined 23 meta-analyses — data on 2.8 million children and adolescents from 64 countries.
Children who spend more time on screens — games, social media, video — more often have:
- lower school achievement;
- slower language development;
- emotional and behavioural difficulties — anxiety, low mood, outbursts, trouble paying attention;
- difficulties getting on with other children.
The strength of this link was similar to, or larger than, that of family income, parenting style and being born prematurely.
To be honest about it: this is a link, not proof that screens are the only cause. Children who already struggle may turn to their phones more. But the link is consistent across many countries and studies.
The good news: unlike income or genetics, screen time is something a family can change itself. And agreement works better than prohibition.
- Agree the rules together with your child — in KidPair they see them on the «My rules» screen.
- Protect sleep and school with schedules: «Sleep», «School».
- Set a reasonable daily limit, and separate limits for the most absorbing apps.
- Warn before a break — it is easier to stop when there was time to finish the game.
- Trade screen time for tasks and rewards: tasks in KidPair make it a fair game.
Source: Al-Jbouri E. et al., JAMA Pediatrics, 28 Sep 2026 (CNN coverage)