00:00Screens are now part of everyday life for most children, whether that's learning at school, keeping in touch with friends
00:06or simply relaxing at home.
00:08But Liverpool City Council says getting that balance right is becoming more important than ever.
00:12At an event in May, the council brought together partners from Education, Health, Early Years and Youth Services to look
00:18at what the evidence says about how screens and social media can affect children's health, wellbeing and development.
00:23The discussion follows recent government announcements, including national guidance on screen use in the early years and plans for statutory
00:30guidance for schools.
00:31Liverpool's now working out how that should look locally, with support designed to reflect real family life while keeping children's
00:38health at the centre.
00:39Councillor Harry Doyle, Liverpool's Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, says technology can support learning, creativity and connection, but
00:46warned too much screen time or poorly managed use can affect children's behaviour, wellbeing and development.
00:52He says parents and carers want realistic advice that helps children stay safe and healthy in a digital world.
00:58Liverpool City Council says evidence shows shared screen use with an engaged adult is more beneficial than children using devices
01:05alone.
01:05For babies and young children, the guidance advises limiting total screen time wherever possible.
01:10It also says slow-paced, age-appropriate content is preferable, while screen-based assistive technology can be essential for some
01:17children with special educational needs.
01:19Professor Matt Ashton, Liverpool's Director of Public Health, says long periods on screens can replace vital activities like sleep, physical
01:26exercise, play and face-to-face interaction.
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