Screen Time and Digital Technology Policy

Effective from: 1st September 2026
Review date: 1st September 2027

1. Aim
At Little Explorers, we recognise that technology is part of everyday life, but we prioritise active play, communication, and exploration. Screens will never replace adult interaction, outdoor play or creative experiences.

This policy has regard to the EYFS 2026 safeguarding and welfare requirements and DfE guidance on screen use.

2. What we mean by screen time
TV, tablet, laptop, phone, games console, smart watch/board.

3. Our Approach
For children under 2: We have no screen time. We do not use screens to settle, distract or occupy babies.

For children aged 2+: Screen use is very limited, purposeful and supervised.

We may use screens for:

• Short educational content to support a topic (e.g. watching caterpillars become butterflies, listening to a story in another language)
• Music and movement (e.g. dance videos)
• Children with SEND to support communication, where agreed with parents
• Taking photos of learning for Tapestry / Learning Journals

We do NOT use screens:

• As a reward or to manage behaviour
• During mealtimes or as part of the sleep/settling routine
• For extended periods - maximum 15 minutes at a time, with adult present
• For unsupervised internet access or personal viewing

4. Safeguarding and Supervision

• All devices have age-appropriate filters and are in child-safe mode
• Children are supervised 1-to-1 when a screen is in use
• Children will not have access to my personal phone, messages or social media
• No child will be photographed/filmed without written parental permission
• We teach children about staying safe online in an age-appropriate way

5. Role Modelling
I will keep my own phone use to essential calls only during minding hours and on silent. I will not use my phone in front of children except for emergencies, safeguarding, or photos for learning journals.

6. Working with Parents

• Please tell me about your child's screen use at home
• If we do use a screen for learning, I will note it in your child's daily diary
• I can share ideas for screen-free play at home if helpful
• If you do not want your child to have any screen time at all, please let me know in writing and I will respect this completely

7. Balancing with Active Learning
In line with EYFS, we will ensure any screen use is balanced with the prime areas:

• Communication & Language: prioritising face-to-face talk
• Physical Development: daily active and outdoor play
• PSED: building relationships without screens

8. Monitoring
I will review any screen use weekly to ensure it remains purposeful and minimal.