The next review of the HSE’s advice to parents on screen time for young children is due to take place in 2027, this newspaper has learned.
At the IMO AGM in April, doctors passed a motion noting the increase in communication difficulties in early school age children. The motion commended the HSE’s screen use guidance included in the My Child series, but called on the Government to support this guidance with a “well-funded” media campaign.
Advice for parents on screen time for children aged 0 to 5 years was first published as part of the launch of MyChild.ie and the My Child books in 2018 and 2019.
An Executive spokesperson told the Medical Independent that this type of guidance is reviewed approximately every three years to ensure it remains accurate and up-to-date
for parents.
“The screen time website guide was last reviewed in May 2024, and advice for parents of children aged six years [and over] was added. The next review will take place around May 2027,” said the spokesperson.
The HSE spokesperson said that the MyChild.ie advice on topics including screen time is promoted to parents through social media.
Dr Abigail Collins, HSE National Clinical Lead, Child Health Public Health, represents the HSE on the Government’s online health taskforce, which was established in September 2024. The taskforce is developing a public health response to the harms caused to children and young people by certain types of online activity. It is expected to submit its final report in September.
Last month the taskforce published an interim report, stating that it was now moving into the “critical phase” of its deliberations. The taskforce noted that a report commissioned from the Institute of Public Health is expected shortly. This will assess children’s exposure to “health-harming” products online and recommend options to enhance protections in Ireland.
“The HSE will consider any actions arising out of this taskforce and will continue to listen to parents’ needs for advice and information,” said the spokesperson.
The HSE National Mental Health office also provides funding to CyberSafeKids, a national online safety charity. “They promote digital literacy, resilience, and responsible online behaviour and deliver practical, impactful solutions to ensure parents and children have the tools they need to stay safe online.”
In addition, HSE funding supports the development and promotion of the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children’s
Digital Hub.
The hub provides information on how children and young people can have positive experiences online.
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