1001 Critical Days Foundation commissions national research into the impact of screen time on babies and families

The 1001 Critical Days Foundation has commissioned a major new study to explore how screen time affects babies and their families during the first 1001 days of life. 

The research will be led by the interdisciplinary Action on Digital Device Immersive Conditions Team (iADDICT), a group of experienced academics from Leeds Trinity University, the University of Leeds, the University of Nottingham and Aston University. 

While screen use has become a routine part of modern family life, most research focuses on older children and adolescents. There remains a major gap in understanding how digital exposure affects babies during the earliest and most sensitive period of brain development. 

This new study will fill that gap by reviewing global evidence on how screen use impacts babies’ physical, psychological, relational and cognitive development, as well as its effects on families more broadly. 

On behalf of the 1001 Critical Days Foundation, Dr Matt Price, Director of Research and Grants, said: 

“I’m thrilled to announce this important collaboration. The findings will have a real impact by informing practical, evidence-based guidance around screen time that will support parents and carers to give their baby the best start in life.”  

The iADDICT team brings together experts in psychology, media and communications, family and cultural dynamics, and optometry, and has a strong track record of informing government policy and public debate. Collectively, the team has advised the Education Select Committee, contributed to Public Health England reports and provided evidence to parliamentary inquiries on screen time and digital wellbeing. 

Commenting on behalf of iADDICT, Rafe Clayton, a senior lecturer in Media Practice at the University of Leeds, said: 

“Parents are worried about excessive screen time and therefore guidance is key. It is essential that this work is undertaken now so that we can provide better advice to new and expectant parents about the potential risks for them and their babies.” 

This collaboration represents a crucial step in addressing one of the most pressing questions of our time: how technology use shapes the first 1001 days. 

🗓️ The research will begin in January 2026, with a final report due in April 2026.