A new research project will investigate how screen time affects babies and their families during the first 1001 days of life. The study is being led by the Action on Digital Device Immersive Conditions Team (iADDICT), which includes academics from Aston University School of Optometry, Leeds Trinity University, the University of Leeds, and the University of Nottingham. The work has been commissioned and funded by the 1001 Critical Days Foundation.
While screens are a regular part of daily family routines, most existing research focuses on older children and teenagers. There is limited understanding about how digital exposure may influence babies during early brain development. This study aims to address that gap and offer guidance for parents and caregivers.
The iADDICT team brings together experts in psychology, media and communications, family dynamics, culture, and optometry. In its initial phase, the group will review international evidence on how screen use impacts babies’ physical health, psychological well-being, relationships, cognitive growth, as well as broader effects on families. By analyzing what is already known globally, they hope to identify areas where further research is needed to develop age-appropriate recommendations.
Professor James Wolffsohn said:
"Dr. Sheppard's and my focus will be on the eyes and the impact on visual development and the tear film in particular, whereas our collaborators expertise is more on psychological impacts such as addiction.
"We are delighted to be collaborating with colleagues from Leeds Trinity University, the University of Leeds and the University of Nottingham in our interdisciplinary iADDICT consortium to investigate this important issue. The aim is to identify how safety cut-offs in digital screen use can be appropriately established."
