Should schools limit kids’ screen time? The science is murky

image via New Scientist

April 30, 2026, 11:00 AM

• •LAUSD is restricting screen time for students, eliminating screens for younger grades.
• •Experts are debating the impact of different forms of screen time on kids' health and learning.
• •Well-designed educational technology can improve learning outcomes.
• •A more precise policy regarding screen time may be more effective than a blanket approach.

The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is implementing screen time restrictions in classrooms due to concerns about the health impacts of excessive screen time. While the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends screen time limits, the science is still evolving, with different forms of screen time potentially having varying effects. Experts caution that a blanket approach to limiting screen time may not be effective, and that well-designed educational technology can actually enhance learning. A more nuanced policy, considering the type and purpose of screen use, might be a better approach.

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