According to UNICEF’s lead researcher on child internet use, online safety and child rights, digital media has become the primary means through which young people play, communicate, receive, create, share information, and express themselves. Young people explore their identities online, access health information and sources of advice and counselling, learn about their rights, report abuse or violations, express opinions and engage civically and politically with governments and the world around them. The internet has become a powerful vehicle through which young people can overcome forms of discrimination or exclusion, to participate and be heard in meaningful decision-making processes, and exercise rights on their own behalf.
At the same time United Kingdom Chief Medical Officers (UKCMO), have highlighted that parents and carers, children & young people (CYP), educational professionals, health professionals, academics and politicians have expressed concern that the amount of time CYP spend engaged in screen-based activities may be detrimental to their physical and mental health. There are also concerns about the content that CYP are viewing and its impact on the mental health of CYP. Some internet content is clearly inappropriate or harmful for children and yet they may still be able to access it should they seek it, or may inadvertently access it.
Technology should be used in moderation, with support and interaction from adults and with age appropriate activities. It is important that children take part in a balance of different non-screen activities too. CYP, parents & teachers should be aware of screen time guidelines and the impact too much screen time may have on health & academic performance.
Evidence
Evidence shows us that young people are spending a substantial amount of time online. In Scotland in 2022, school-aged children aged 11-15 years old were spending an average of:
- 3.0 hours gaming
- 2.8 hours on social media
- 2.4 hours watching TV
- 1.2 hours browsing the internet
Young people often use many screens at once, known as ‘multi-screening’, and they may therefore be doing many of these activities at the same time.
So, what exactly is the impact of screen time on children and young people’s mental health?
The simple answer is that we can’t say for sure. This is because the evidence is inconsistent and numerous studies have revealed mixed findings. Many of the apparent connections between screen time and adverse effects may be mediated by lost opportunities for positive activities (socialising, exercise, sleep) that are displaced by screen time. Therefore, it is wise to take a precautionary approach! For more information on screen time and mental health please refer to the NHS GGC Screen Time & Mental Health Blog.
Screen Time Guidelines
The UK Chief Medical Officer recommends:
- Ensure screen use does not replace sleep, physical activity, face to face social interaction, learning or other healthy behaviours.
- Under –2-years: No screen time is recommended. Babies benefit most from direct interaction, such as talking, singing, and cuddling, which supports brain development and bonding. Even background TV should be avoided as it can reduce parent-child interaction and attention to surroundings
- Ages 2–4 years: Limit screen time to less than 1 hour per day, ideally with a parent or carer. Co-viewing and interactive discussion about content help support language, social skills and learning
- Primary school-aged children (5–12 years): Screen time should be balanced. Non-educational screen use should stay under 2 hours per day, while educational use for schoolwork is acceptable. Avoid screens at least 1 hour before bedtime to protect sleep
- Older children and teenagers: Encourage moderation, co-viewing, and discussion about online activity. Focus on balancing screen time with physical activity, social interaction, and sleep
Benefits of Reduced Screen Time
Reducing screen time in early childhood offers a range of developmental and health benefits:
- Improved Language and Communication Skills: Young children learn best through real-life interactions. Excessive screen time can limit opportunities for verbal engagement, especially during critical language development periods.
- Better Attention and Social Skills: Face-to-face interactions help children develop focus, empathy, and social understanding. High screen use can interfere with these essential skills.
- Healthier Sleep Patterns: Exposure to screens, particularly before bedtime, can disrupt sleep routines and reduce sleep quality, affecting overall wellbeing.
- Lower Risk of Obesity: More screen time often correlates with less physical activity and increased snacking, contributing to weight gain and associated health risks.
- Enhanced Academic Performance: Children with limited screen exposure tend to perform better in school, especially when screens are kept out of bedrooms and used mindfully.
- Reduced Behavioural Issues: High screen use has been linked to emotional and attention problems in school-aged children, including increased irritability and difficulty concentrating.
Early Year Establishment
How to implement the Be Screen Smart project in your Early Year Establishment
Overview
Thank you for agreeing to participate in the “Be Screen Smart” project. There are many benefits to using screens/digital devices; academically, professionally and recreationally. Technology should be used in moderation, with support and interaction from adults and with age appropriate activities. It is important that children take part in a balance of different play activities e.g. explorative play, active/energetic play, functional/manipulative/creative play, social play and pretend play.
It is important to assist children, young people and their families to find the right balance, fun and engaging alternatives to screen time, opportunities to explore their own ideas and creations, enjoy each other’s company and take pleasure in the world around them.
To reach the best optimal results from the Be Screen Smart project your establishment could implement the following:
- As part of the Health & Wellbeing programme your establishment could take part in the Be Screen Smart project.
- Introduce the Be Screen Smart project via parent workshops to inform parents that their child will be taking part in the Be Screen Smart project and that parental involvement & parental support is crucial.
- Send the Be Screen Smart Flyer & Pledge Card home.
- As you embark on this project please note that an enthusiastic attitude will help pupils in their efforts to reduce the time they spend on screens for entertainment. If the staff also takes part in the project and reduces their entertainment screen time and shares their attempt to reduce entertainment screen time with the children this will help in encouraging pupils to do so too.
- Please also consider other ways your establishment can support this attempt.
Thank you for your commitment to improving the health of children in Glasgow.
Health Improvement Team
(This resource has been developed by the North West Health Improvement Team for Glasgow City)
Primary School
How to implement the Be Screen Smart project in your school
Overview
Thank you for agreeing to participate in the “Be Screen Smart” project. There are many benefits to using screens/digital devices; academically, professionally and recreationally. However children & young people are spending too much time with screens.
It is important to assist children, young people and their families to find the right balance, fun and engaging alternatives to screen time, opportunities to explore their own ideas and creations, enjoy each other’s company and take pleasure in the world around them. By implementing the lesson plans within the classroom we hope to help pupils include more screen-free activities into their free time while cutting down on the time they spend on screen-based activities such as watching TV, surfing the internet and playing computer games or spending time on social media.
By consulting with children on how to best balance their use of digital technology, we could help them turn digital technology into a tool for creative expression, participation, play or learning. Schools could teach children how to search for high-quality information and distinguish fake news through their mobile phones. In doing so, they will be training children to use technology purposefully while negotiating and overcoming its distracting elements. Learning how to stay focused on a task despite technological interference will likely be an important skill in the future.
During the lesson plans pupils will be given the opportunity to track their time spent on screen-based activities. They will then be challenged to reduce entertainment screen time and instead do fun screen-free activities.
To reach the optimal results from the Be Screen Smart project your school could implement the following:
- As part of the Health & Wellbeing programme every year group could take part in the Be Screen Smart project together as a whole school approach.
- Introduce the Be Screen Smart project via school assemblies or parent workshops. Invite parents to the assemblies/workshops to inform them that their child will be taking part in the Be Screen Smart project and that parental involvement & parental support is crucial.
- Share Screen Time Family Tips PowerPoint presentation on school website and social media accounts.
- Send a text message or email to parents directing them to the school website for more information on the Be Screen Smart Project. Also ensure a letter for the Parent/Guardian & School Be Screen Smart Pledge is sent home.
Thank you for your commitment to improving the health of young people in Glasgow.
Health Improvement Team
(This resource has been developed by the North West Health Improvement Team for Glasgow City)
Lesson Plans Introduction
How to deliver the lesson plans to pupils from P1 to P7
Three sessions need to be delivered over a period of 3 weeks (P1 to P7). Parental involvement is important and parents should be informed after session 2 through a letter about the Be Screen Smart project outlining how their child will be involved with the Be Screen Smart project and a Be Screen Smart School Pledge Card detailing information and tips for parents on how to support their child/ren. Please see below a summary breakdown of the sessions. The sessions are explained in detail below.
SESSION 1 Introduction
In this session you will ask pupils to track the time they spend on screen-based activities before they know the overall goal of this project.
SESSION 2
This session provides pupils with an overview of the Be Screen Smart project. It also provides them with an opportunity to identify screen-free ways they would like to spend their free time while at home or in their neighbourhood which will prepare them to take part in screen-free activities. Parents will also be informed about the Be Screen Smart Project.
Session 3
In this session you will discuss with pupils their homework task and get feedback from them
Teachers Notes
Need to Know Teachers Notes
Aims:
- Promote Healthy Digital Habits
- Encourage children and young people to balance screen use with essential activities like sleep, physical activity, healthy eating, and face-to-face social interaction. Support Screen-Free Alternatives.
- Inspire pupils to engage in creative, fun, and meaningful screen-free activities during their free time.
- Help children use digital devices as tools for learning, creativity, play and participation rather than passive consumption.
- Engage Families and Educators. Provide teachers and parents with resources and guidance to confidently support children’s digital wellbeing and open conversations about screen use.
- Encourage Self-Reflection
- Give pupils opportunities to track their screen time and reflect on their digital habits, fostering greater awareness and self-regulation.
Overview
While digital devices offer numerous benefits academically, professionally, and recreationally, excessive screen time among children and young people is increasingly replacing healthy habits such as sleep, nutritious eating, physical activity, and face-to-face social interaction.
To support children, young people, and their families in achieving a healthier balance, it is essential to encourage fun, engaging alternatives to screen time. These alternatives can include opportunities for creativity, meaningful social connections, and appreciation of the world around them. By incorporating these lesson plans into the classroom, we aim to inspire pupils to explore more screen-free activities during their free time, reducing reliance on passive screen use like watching TV, browsing the internet, gaming or scrolling through social media.
Engaging children in conversations about their digital habits can empower them to use technology more purposefully as a tool for creativity, learning, play, and participation.
As part of the lesson plans, pupils will have the chance to monitor their screen time and take on the challenge of reducing entertainment-based screen use. Instead, they will be encouraged to take part in enjoyable, screen-free activities that promote well-being and personal growth.
To achieve the best outcomes from the Be Screen Smart project, schools are encouraged to:
- Introduce the Be Screen Smart project via school assemblies or parent workshops. Invite parents to the assemblies/workshops to inform them that their child will be taking part in the Be Screen Smart project and that parental involvement and parental support is crucial.
- Share Screen Time Family Tips PowerPoint presentation on school website and social media accounts.
- Send a text message to parents directing them to the school website for more information on the Be Screen Smart Project. Also ensure a letter for the Parent/Guardian and School Be Screen Smart Pledge is sent home.
To further support this initiative, a range of resources and guidance will be made available for teachers and parents. These materials are designed to build confidence in addressing screen time concerns and to facilitate open, supportive conversations with young people about their digital habits. By equipping adults with practical tools and strategies, we can foster a more balanced and mindful approach to technology use both at school and at home.
What you need to know before delivering the lesson plans:
What is Screen Time?
Screen Time refers to the amount of time a person spends using devices with screens, such as:
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- Computers
- Televisions
- Gaming consoles
Many devices and apps now include Screen Time tracking features to help users monitor and manage their screen time.
Understanding Screen Time: A Balanced Approach for Children and Young People
Children and young people today have grown up in a digital world where screens, social media, and online platforms are part of everyday life.
Screens are used for learning, socialising, entertainment, and accessing support. In fact, 95% of young people report feeling safe online, even though 1 in 4 have encountered harmful content such as trolling, violence, or sexual material (Digital Youth Index 2023). This sense of safety is often linked to strong digital literacy skills. However, some groups such as girls, LGBTQ+ youth, and those from minority ethnic backgrounds are more likely to face negative online experiences, which can increase feelings of isolation (Digital Youth Index 2021; Internet Matters 2024).
Recent data from Ofcom (2025) shows:
- Over 36% of children aged 3-5 use social media, rising to 70% among 1215-year-olds.
- 66% of children aged 3-17 watch live-streamed videos.
- 48% use online videos to support learning or homework.
- 50% of 8–17-year-olds have used AI tools for schoolwork.
- Almost all children aged 8+ have received at least one lesson on online safety.
Despite growing concerns, there is currently no conclusive evidence linking screen time directly to poor mental health outcomes. Reviews by Orben & Przybylski (2019) and EPPI (2018) highlight the need for more robust research, especially into how different types of screen use affect wellbeing.
In the meantime, the UK Chief Medical Officers (2019) recommend a precautionary approach: prioritising physical activity, sleep, healthy eating, and face-to-face social interaction over screen use. This is echoed by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health and the American Academy of Paediatrics.
In June 2026, the UK government announced they will ban social media for under 16s. Alongside this, certain harmful features on other online services like livestreaming and strangers contacting children will be restricted for under-18’s.
The results of a national consultation from March to May showed overwhelming public demand for action, with 9 in 10 parents backing a social media ban for under‑16s, and two-thirds of young people agreeing under-16s should not be allowed to use at least some social media platforms.
These changes reset the rules so that children are protected from the platforms and online features that create the most harm and will be implemented by Spring 2027.
For more information see the government website- Fact sheet: New rules to protect children online – GOV.UK
Lesson Plan 1 for P1 to P7
BACKGROUND
On average, young people in the United Kingdom spend the same amount of time on screen-based activities as they spend in School.
This introductory session helps pupils explore how they use screens for entertainment at home. Pupils will track their screen use before learning more about screen habits, health and wellbeing in later sessions.
Learning Intention
- To develop awareness of how I use screens for entertainment and how much time I spend using them.
Success Criteria
I can:
- name other ways I use screens for entertainment
- record my screen time over several days
- talk about what I learned from tracking my screen use
TIME NEEDED
20 minutes
Resources:
- Screen Time Tracking Form
- Screen Time Tracking Example
- Frequently Asked Questions
Activity Steps with Pupils
Begin by asking pupils:
- What is screen time?
- What types of screens do you use?
- What activities do you do on screens?
- What do you enjoy doing on screens?
Examples may include:
- Watching television
- Playing games
- Using tablets
- Video calling family and friends
- Watching videos
- Using apps
Explain:
Screens can be useful for learning, staying connected and having fun. During this project we will explore how to balance screen use with other activities that help us stay healthy and feel good.
Screen Time Tracking
Show pupils the Screen Time Tracking Form and the completed example.
Explain:
We are going to find out more about our own screen habits. There are no right or wrong answers, and nobody will be judged on how much screen time they record.
Ask pupils to complete the tracking form at home over:
- Two weekdays (Monday-Friday)
- One weekend day (Saturday or Sunday)
- Pupils may ask a parent, carer or another trusted adult to help them estimate their screen use if needed.
Encourage pupils to record their screen use as honestly as possible.
Preparing for Session 2
Explain that the forms will be discussed during the next lesson.
Remind pupils:
You will not be asked to share your exact number of hours with the class if you do not want to.
Schedule Session 2 approximately one week later to allow enough time for pupils to complete the tracking activity.
Teacher Notes
Inclusion and Accessibility
Some pupils may use screens to:
- support communication
- access learning
- connect with friends and family
- support emotional regulation
Discussions should focus on balance, wellbeing and healthy habits rather than presenting all screen use as negative.
Provide opportunities for pupils to participate through:
- discussion
- drawing
- pictures or symbols
- paired conversations
- verbal responses
Where appropriate.
Send information below home
Frequently asked questions for parent/guardian & pupils about how to fill in tracking form
Screen Time Tracking Form
Screen Time Tracking Example
Parents letter
Lesson Plan 2 for P1 to P7
Background
On average young people in the United Kingdom spend the same amount of time on screen-based activities as they spend in school. This session provides pupils with an opportunity to identify screen-free ways they would like to spend their free time while at home or in their neighbourhood and become familiar with the screen time guidelines.
Learning Intention
Learner will:
- Identify screen‐free activities and understand the purpose of the Be Screen Smart project. (P1 to P7)
Success Criteria
I can:
- Understand the impact of having too much screen time and how this affects my health. (P1 to P7)
- State what is screen time (P3 to P7)
- Explain/identify the guidelines for entertainment screen time (P4 to P7)
- Identify screen-free activities I like to do during my free time. (P1 to P7)
Links to Curriculum for Excellence
HWB 0-15a (p1) HWB 1-15a (P2,3,4) and HWB 2-15a (P5,6,7)
HWB 0-25a (P1) HWB 1-25a (P2,3,4) and HWB 2-25a (P5,6,7)
Time Needed: (45 minutes +)
What’s needed for this session:
- Flipchart & pens/Smart board
- Paper and pens/pencils for making posters
- Screentime guidelines (Included in the Need-to-Know Teachers Notes)
- Be Screen Smart Pledge or if you have time make your own pledge poster
Send information below home
Be Screen Smart School Pledge
Use the appropriate activity sheet below for your class.
Activity Steps – P1 to P3
Introduction
- Collect the screen time tracking forms.
- Discuss the results as a class.
- Remind pupils that they do not need to share how much screen time they had if they do not want to.
Ask:
- Was anyone surprised by their results?
- Did anyone spend more time on screens than they thought they would?
- What do you like to do when you are not in school?
- Who likes to watch TV, use a tablet, play computer games or spend time on a computer?
Activity
- Record responses using a picture chart, tally chart or bar graph to develop numeracy skills.
Screen Time Guidelines
Talk about the Screen Time Guidelines (see the Need-to-Know Teacher Notes).
Ask:
- Does anyone know how many hours of screen time are recommended each day?
Explain:
- Children aged 5 and over should aim to spend no more than 2 hours a day using screens for fun.
- This does not include schoolwork or learning activities.
- Younger children should spend even less time using screens for entertainment.
Favourite Screen-Free Activities
Ask:
- What do you like to do when you are not in school that does not involve screens?
Examples:
- Playing outside
- Going to the park
- Playing indoors
- Reading
- Drawing
- Riding a bike
- Playing with a ball
- Playing board games
- Spending time with family and friends
Activity
- Record responses using a picture chart, tally chart or bar graph.
Healthy Habits and Screen Time
Discuss healthy habits such as:
- Being physically active
- Playing outdoors
- Eating fruit and vegetables
- Getting enough sleep
- Spending time with family and friends
Talk about how too much screen time can sometimes make healthy habits more difficult:
- Less time for physical activity
- Eating meals while watching a screen
- Choosing quick snacks instead of healthier foods
- Finding it harder to get enough sleep
Be Screen Smart Pledge
Explain that the Be Screen Smart Pledge is a promise to reduce screen time used for entertainment.
Pupils can choose to:
- Reduce their screen time for a set period
- Have a screen-free day
- Take part in a screen-free week
Class option:
- Create a class pledge poster and ask everyone to sign it.
Teacher reminder:
- Send the Be Screen Smart Pledge home with pupils.
Homework Challenge
Choose at least one screen-free activity to do this week.
For example:
- Play outside
- Visit the park
- Play a board game
- Draw or paint a picture
- Read a book
- Spend time with family or friends
Bring back:
- A short note, drawing or description of what you did.
Optional Poster Activity
Ask pupils to create a poster showing fun screen-free activities.
Older pupils may also wish to explain:
- Why screen-free activities are good for our health
- How they help us stay active, sleep well and spend time with others
Reflection Question
What is one screen-free activity you would like to do more often this week?
Activity Step – P4 – P7
Introduction:
- Collect the screen time tracking forms
- Discuss the results as a class
- Remind pupils that they do not need to share how much screen time they had if they do not want to
Discussion Questions:
Ask pupils:
- Were you surprised by the results?
- Did you spend more time on screens than they expected?
- What do you like to do when you are not in school?
- Which type of screen time took up most of your free time at home?
- Did your screen time increase at the weekend?
- Did anyone stay up later than their usual bedtime because they were using screens?
Create a chart to display the results from our discussion (e.g. picture chart, tally chart, bar chart), incorporating numeracy and data-handling skills.
Screen Time Guidelines
Discuss the Screen Time Guidelines (see the Need-to-Know Teachers’ Notes).
Ask pupils:
“Does anyone know how much screen time is recommended?”
Explain that for children aged 5 years and over, it is recommended that recreational (non-educational) screen time is limited to around 2 hours or less of recreational screen time. Younger children should have even less recreational screen time.
Screen-Free Activities
Ask pupils:
“What do you like to do when you are not in school that does not involve screens?”
Examples could include:
- Nature walks
- Playing indoors
- Reading or listening to stories
- Crafts
- Helping at home
- Drawing
- Cooking or baking
- Playing ball games
- Spending time with family and friends without using screens
Create a list or chart showing the responses (e.g. picture chart, tally chart, bar chart), incorporating numeracy and data-handling skills.
Health and Wellbeing Discussion
Discuss activities that help us stay healthy, such as:
- Physical activity and exercise
- Eating fruit and vegetables
- Getting enough sleep
- Spending time with friends and family
Discuss how spending too much time on screens can make these healthy habits more difficult. For example:
- Choosing quick, less healthy snacks instead of balanced meals
- Eating while using screens, which may lead to overeating because we are less aware of feeling full
- Spending lengthy periods sitting down and not getting enough physical activity
- Having difficulty getting to sleep or experiencing disrupted sleep due to screen use, especially before bedtime
Optional Activity
Ask pupils to create a poster promoting screen-free activities to display in the classroom or at home.
They may wish to include:
- Examples of screen-free activities
- The benefits of reducing screen time
- Ways to be active, creative, or social without screens
Pupils could share their posters with the class or present them at a school assembly to promote healthy screen habits.
Be Screen Smart Pledge
Explain that the Be Screen Smart Pledge is a promise to reduce screen time used for entertainment.
Children may choose to:
- Reduce their screen time for a set period
- Have a screen-free day
- Take part in a screen-free week
Schools may wish to link this activity with Screen-Free Week, which usually takes place during the first week of May.
Pupils can complete an individual pledge at home, or the class can create a shared pledge poster and sign it together.
Teachers should send the Be Screen Smart Pledge home for pupils to discuss with their families.
Homework Task
Take part in one or more screen-free activities during the week. For example:
- Play outside
- Visit a park
- Play a board game
- Draw or paint a picture
- Read a book
- Choose another screen-free activity of your choice
Write down what you did and bring your completed homework back to class to share your experiences.
Lesson Plan 3 for P1 to P7
Background
This session reinforces the key message that screens can be a positive part of everyday life when used in balance with other activities and supported by trusted adults. Pupils will reflect on the screen-free activities they enjoy and explore ways to achieve a healthy balance between screen use, play, physical activity, learning, rest and time with family and friends.
Learning Intention
Learner will:
- Name screen‐free activities which they enjoy at home and understand the purpose of keeping a balance of different screen-free and play activities and reducing screen-based activities for entertainment. (P1 to P7)
- Understand the Be Screen Smart Steps to Success. (P1 to P7)
Success Criteria
I can:
- Understand/state the importance of keeping a balance of different screen-free and play activities and reducing screen-based activities for entertainment. (P1 to P7)
- Understand the Be Screen Smart Steps to Success. (P1 to P7)
- Explain/identify screen-free activities I like to do during my free time. (P1 to P7)
Links to Curriculum for Excellence
- HWB 0-15a (p1) HWB 1-15a (P2,3,4) and HWB 2-15a (P5,6,7)
- HWB 0-25a (P1) HWB 1-25a (P2,3,4) and HWB 2-25a (P5,6,7)
Class activity
- Pupils will now have had the opportunity to explore a range of screen-free activities in class and complete associated homework tasks. Encourage pupils to reflect on their experiences by sharing which activity they completed at home, what they enjoyed most, and any new activities they would like to continue in the future.
- Explain to pupils that it is important to make time for a variety of activities, including screen-free play. Discuss how different types of play, such as active play, creative activities, imaginative play and spending time with others, can help us learn new skills, stay healthy and have fun.
- Remind pupils screens are good for learning and connecting with family & friends.
- Encourage pupils to continue making time for the screen-free activities they enjoy and to try new activities suggested by their peers.
- Encourage pupils to support their parent/guardian implement the steps to success on the schools Be Screen Smart pledge card sent home after session 2. Go over the steps to success with class.
- Emphasise to the class that not all screen time is bad. However, we need to ensure screen time is balanced with healthy habits and doesn’t impact on physical activity, healthy eating, sleep and socialisation.
“Our school would like your family to join us and help promote the following at home:
Be Screen Smart Steps to Success
- Turn off all screens during mealtimes
- Try to limit screen time for entertainment purposes
- Turn off all devices at night at least 1 hour before bedtime
- Make bedrooms a tech free zone
- As a family name some screen free activities you can enjoy together e.g. visit the park, play a card game, play sports such as football/swimming, build a den, go for a walk or cycle.
Hand out Be Screen Smart Certificate!
Secondary School
How to implement the Be Screen Smart project in your school
Overview
Thank you for agreeing to participate in the module “Be Screen Smart”. There are many benefits to using screens/digital devices; academically, professionally and recreationally. However children & young people are spending too much time with screens.
It is important to assist children, young people and their families to find the right balance, fun and engaging alternatives to screen time, opportunities to explore their own ideas and creations, enjoy each other’s company and take pleasure in the world around them. By implementing the lesson plans within the classroom we hope to help pupils include more screen-free activities into their free time while cutting down on the time they spend on screen-based activities such as watching TV, surfing the internet and playing computer games or spending time on social media.
During the lesson plans pupils will be given the opportunity to track their time spent on screen-based activities. They will then be challenged to reduce entertainment screen time and instead do fun screen-free activities.
To reach the optimal results from the Be Screen Smart project your school could implement the following:
- Introduce the Be Screen Smart project via school assemblies or parent workshops. Invite parents to the assemblies/workshops to inform them that their child will be taking part in the Be Screen Smart project and that parental involvement & parental support is crucial.
- Share Screen Time Family Tips PowerPoint presentation on school website and social media accounts.
- Send a text message to parents directing them to the school website for more information on the Be Screen Smart Project. Also ensure a letter for the Parent/Guardian & School Be Screen Smart Pledge is sent home.
Thank you for your commitment to improving the health of young people in Glasgow.
Health Improvement Team
(This resource has been developed by the North West Health Improvement Team for Glasgow City)
How to Deliver the Lesson Plans
Three sessions consisting of 50 minutes each to be delivered over a period of 3 weeks. Parental involvement is important and parents/guardians should be informed after session 2 through a letter outlining the Be Screen Smart project and a Be Screen Smart Pledge Card detailing information and steps for success for parents/guardians on how to support pupils reduce screen time. Please see below a summary breakdown of the sessions. The lesson plans are explained in detail in the next section.
SESSION 1 Introduction (Track Screen Time) Day 1
In this session you will ask pupils to track the time they spend on screen-based activities before they know the overall goal of this project.
SESSION 2
This session provides pupils with an overview of the Be Screen Smart project. It also provides pupils with an opportunity to identify screen-free ways they would like to spend their free time while at home or with friends which will prepare them to go without using screens for recreational use for up to 3 days.
SESSION 3
This session provides pupils with a challenge to join millions of other people who have gone screen-free for up to a week and to do some of the screen-free activities they identified in Session 2.
Teachers Notes
Need to Know Teachers Notes
Aims:
- Promote Healthy Digital Habits
- Encourage children and young people to balance screen use with essential activities like sleep, physical activity, healthy eating, and face-to-face social interaction. Support Screen-Free Alternatives.
- Inspire pupils to engage in creative, fun, and meaningful screen-free activities during their free time.
- Help children use digital devices as tools for learning, creativity, play and participation rather than passive consumption.
- Engage Families and Educators. Provide teachers and parents with resources and guidance to confidently support children’s digital wellbeing and open conversations about screen use.
- Encourage Self-Reflection
- Give pupils opportunities to track their screen time and reflect on their digital habits, fostering greater awareness and self-regulation.
Overview
While digital devices offer numerous benefits academically, professionally, and recreationally, excessive screen time among children and young people is increasingly replacing healthy habits such as sleep, nutritious eating, physical activity, and face-to-face social interaction.
To support children, young people, and their families in achieving a healthier balance, it is essential to encourage fun, engaging alternatives to screen time. These alternatives can include opportunities for creativity, meaningful social connections, and appreciation of the world around them. By incorporating these lesson plans into the classroom, we aim to inspire pupils to explore more screen-free activities during their free time, reducing reliance on passive screen use like watching TV, browsing the internet, gaming or scrolling through social media.
Engaging children in conversations about their digital habits can empower them to use technology more purposefully as a tool for creativity, learning, play, and participation.
As part of the lesson plans, pupils will have the chance to monitor their screen time and take on the challenge of reducing entertainment-based screen use. Instead, they will be encouraged to take part in enjoyable, screen-free activities that promote well-being and personal growth.
To achieve the best outcomes from the Be Screen Smart project, schools are encouraged to:
- Introduce the Be Screen Smart project via school assemblies or parent workshops. Invite parents to the assemblies/workshops to inform them that their child will be taking part in the Be Screen Smart project and that parental involvement and parental support is crucial.
- Share Screen Time Family Tips PowerPoint presentation on school website and social media accounts.
- Send a text message to parents directing them to the school website for more information on the Be Screen Smart Project. Also ensure a letter for the Parent/Guardian and School Be Screen Smart Pledge is sent home.
To further support this initiative, a range of resources and guidance will be made available for teachers and parents. These materials are designed to build confidence in addressing screen time concerns and to facilitate open, supportive conversations with young people about their digital habits. By equipping adults with practical tools and strategies, we can foster a more balanced and mindful approach to technology use both at school and at home.
What you need to know before delivering the lesson plans:
What is Screen Time?
Screen Time refers to the amount of time a person spends using devices with screens, such as:
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- Computers
- Televisions
- Gaming consoles
Many devices and apps now include Screen Time tracking features to help users monitor and manage their screen time.
Understanding Screen Time: A Balanced Approach for Children and Young People
Children and young people today have grown up in a digital world where screens, social media, and online platforms are part of everyday life.
Screens are used for learning, socialising, entertainment, and accessing support. In fact, 95% of young people report feeling safe online, even though 1 in 4 have encountered harmful content such as trolling, violence, or sexual material (Digital Youth Index 2023). This sense of safety is often linked to strong digital literacy skills. However, some groups such as girls, LGBTQ+ youth, and those from minority ethnic backgrounds are more likely to face negative online experiences, which can increase feelings of isolation (Digital Youth Index 2021; Internet Matters 2024).
Recent data from Ofcom (2025) shows:
- Over 36% of children aged 3-5 use social media, rising to 70% among 1215-year-olds.
- 66% of children aged 3-17 watch live-streamed videos.
- 48% use online videos to support learning or homework.
- 50% of 8–17-year-olds have used AI tools for schoolwork.
- Almost all children aged 8+ have received at least one lesson on online safety.
Despite growing concerns, there is currently no conclusive evidence linking screen time directly to poor mental health outcomes. Reviews by Orben & Przybylski (2019) and EPPI (2018) highlight the need for more robust research, especially into how different types of screen use affect wellbeing.
In the meantime, the UK Chief Medical Officers (2019) recommend a precautionary approach: prioritising physical activity, sleep, healthy eating, and face-to-face social interaction over screen use. This is echoed by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health and the American Academy of Paediatrics.
In June 2026, the UK government announced they will ban social media for under 16s. Alongside this, certain harmful features on other online services like livestreaming and strangers contacting children will be restricted for under-18’s.
The results of a national consultation from March to May showed overwhelming public demand for action, with 9 in 10 parents backing a social media ban for under‑16s, and two-thirds of young people agreeing under-16s should not be allowed to use at least some social media platforms.
These changes reset the rules so that children are protected from the platforms and online features that create the most harm and will be implemented by Spring 2027.
For more information see the government website- Fact sheet: New rules to protect children online – GOV.UK
Links to Curriculum for Excellence
Curriculum for Excellence Links
Improved health outcomes are linked to healthy lifestyle choices. Raising awareness levels and encouraging positive behaviours in all pupils is essential to improving health outcomes and reducing health inequalities. The Be Screen Smart project is in line with Curriculum for Excellence specifically in relation to health and wellbeing.
| HWB Organiser(s) | Physical education, physical activity & sport |
| Experiences & Outcomes | HWB 2-27a / HWB 3-27aI can explain why I need to be active on a daily basis to maintain good health and try to achieve a good balance of sleep, rest and physical activity. |
| Food & Health | HWB 2-37aI can understand how advertising and the media are used to influence consumers. |
| Planning for choices & changes | HWB 3‐19aI am developing the skills and attributes which I will need for learning, life and work. I am gaining understanding of the relevance of my current learning to future opportunities. This is helping me to make informed choices about my life and learning. |
| Learning Intentions | I can demonstrate the benefits of being active, physical activity, good balance of sleep and rest for my health and wellbeing. I can show an understanding of how advertising and the media can influence consumers into buying unhealthy foods. I can identify the choices I can make to reduce my screen time. I can show an understanding of how my current screen time behaviour can impact my learning, life and work. |
SESSION 1 for S1 Pupils
Introduction
This session introduces pupils to what is meant by screen time and asks them to consider the reasons why they use screens and when they use them. Pupils will have the opportunity to track their screen time over 3 days.
OBJECTIVES
Pupils Will:
- Consider the reasons for using screens and when they use them.
- Develop an understanding of their daily screen use by monitoring a range of screen-based activities over three days.
TIME NEEDED
30 – 40 minutes
GETTING READY
- Screen Time Tracking Form and Example
- Parents letters
Review:
- Frequently Asked Questions
Activity Steps
Explain:
We are going to take part in a project looking at the amount of time we spend using screens, how this cab impact our health and wellbeing and what other activities we can do with our free time instead.
What is meant by screen time?
Screen time is the amount of time spent using screens such as TVs, computers, smartphones and tablets, using the internet, scrolling social media and playing computer games.
Why do we use screens?
Divide pupils into small groups and ask them to discuss why they use screens (e.g. because they are bored, for homework, to catch up with a friend) and when or where they use them (e.g. after school, before bed, when visiting friends etc) and when or where they use them ((e.g. after school, before bed, when visiting friends) Ask pupils to write down some of their ideas.
Invite pupils to share their responses to the class.
Hand out the Screen time Tracking Form and Example.
Explain that they will be asked to track their screen-based activities such as watching
- TV,
- playing computer games,
- using the internet,
- scrolling on social media
- using smart phones/tablets.
Pupils should only track their screen time for three days. Two of these days should be on a weekday (Monday to Friday), and one should a weekend day (Saturday or Sunday)
Completing the Screen Track Form
Ask pupils to complete the form whenever they take part in a screen-based activity.
To track screen time, pupils should round their time to the nearest half hour (e.g., 11/2 hours). They can use tally marks on the form to help keep track of their screen time.
Pupils may also wish to use the Screen time tracking feature on their smartphone or tablet (if available) and compare this with their own records.
At the end of each day, pupils should add up their tally marks to calculate their total screen-time.
Remind pupils that they will not be judged on the amount of screen time they record, and it is important to complete the form honestly.
Returning the Forms
Ask pupils to return their completed forms at the next session (Session 2).
Note to teacher: Session 2 should take place 4–7 days after session 1. Ensure there is enough time for pupils to track their screen time on two weekdays and one weekend day.
Send the Parents/carers letter and FAQ home to support pupils to complete the tracking form.
Reminder
Over the next few days, remind the pupils to complete their Screen-Time Tracking Form and bring it back to the next session.
SESSION 2 for S1 Pupils
Introduction
It is estimated that young people in the UK spend the same amount of time on screen-based activities as they do in school, averaging around 6 –7 hours a day. This session provides pupils with an overview of the Be Screen Smart challenge and an opportunity to identify screen-free activities they can do. It also encourages pupils to consider the impact screen-time can have on their health and wellbeing
OBJECTIVES
Pupils Will:
- Understand the purpose of the Be Screen Smart Challenge.
- Identify screen-free activities they would like to do during their free time.
- Consider the health and wellbeing impacts of screens.
TIME NEEDED
50-60 minutes
GETTING READY
- Screen time: what you need to know
- Flipchart and pens
- Be Screen Smart Steps to Success (to send home)
Activity Steps
Ask :
“If you didn’t have screens such as games consoles, computer, tablet, smart phone or TV, how would you like to spend your free time?
- Ask for a volunteer to record ideas on the flip chart.
Allow pupils time to come up with their own ideas before handing out the Screen Free Things to Do Sheet.
Ask:
- highlight activities they would like to try
- add any other additional screen time activities to the end of the sheet
Reviewing Screen Time Tracking Forms
Ask:
“Please take out your completed Screen Time Tracking Form.”
If any pupils have not completed the form: Ask them to think back to the previous day and estimate how much time they spent using screens, such as watching TV, playing computer games, or using smart phone or tablet.
Ask:
“Were you surprised at the amount time you spend using screens”
Follow up with:
“Do you feel that you spend a lot or time in school?
Explain:
“Did you know that the average Scottish young person spends roughly the same amount of time using screens for entertainment use as they do in school each day?
Introducing the Be Screen Smart Challenge!
Explain:
“You are going to take part in the Be Screen Smart challenge!”
Explain that during the challenge, they will try to reduce the amount of time you spend using screens for entertainment and spend more time taking part in screen free activities.
Hand out the Be Screen Smart Pledge Card and ask pupils to complete the pledge.
Explain:
Over the next few days, you are challenge is to spend no more than 2 hours each day using screens for entertainment and to spend more time doing screen-free activities.
Remind pupils that these 2 hours:
Do not include screen time used for schoolwork or homework.
Focus only on recreational or entertainment screen use.
Explain that Screen-free activities are activities that do not involve:
- TVs
- Computers or laptops
- Tablets
- Smartphones
- Computer games.
Remind pupils:
“You can try some of the screen free activities you suggested earlier during times when you would usually use a screen.”
Debate Activity
Explain to pupils:
“Today you are going to take part in a debate about screen time.”
Split the class into two groups:
Group 1: Prepare arguments for why screen time can be beneficial for young people and their families.
Group 2: Prepare arguments for why too much screen time can have negative effects on young people and their families.
Ask pupils to consider:
- Health and wellbeing
- Learning and school performance
- Family life and relationships
- Friendships and social connections
Explain:
“Not all screen time is the same. It can be helpful to think about the different ways screens are used,”
Active screen time:
Using a screen to think, learn, create, participate.
Examples: include:
- Doing homework
- Playing games that involve problem‑solving
- Chatting with friends and family
- Creating videos or digital content.
Passive screen time
Using a screen without much thinking or interaction.
Examples include:
- Watching TV
- Watching TikTok or YouTube videos
- Scrolling on social media
- Watching online content for long period
Preparation and debate
- Give pupils 10 minutes to prepare their arguments.
- Then allow 10 minutes for the debate.
Encourage pupils to listen respectfully to different viewpoints and support their arguments with examples where possible.
At the end of the lesson, ask pupils:
- What is one screen-free activity you would like to try during the challenge?
- What do you think will be the most difficult part of reducing screen time?
- What benefits do you think you might notice from spending less time on screens?
Remind pupils to keep working towards the Be Screen Smart pledge and to try some of the screen-free activities they identified during today’s session.
SESSION 3 For S1 Pupils
Introduction
This session will explore the benefits of spending less time using screens and encourages young people to consider screen time guidance. Pupils will have opportunity to reflect on their experience of taking part in the Be Screen Smart Challenge and celebrate young people’s success.
OBJECTIVES
Pupils will:
- Discuss the health and wellbeing benefits of reducing screen time
- Consider screen time guidance and the reasons behind this.
- Reflect on the experience of reducing screen time to no more than 2 hours a day.
- Celebrate their achievements and success during the challenge
TIME NEEDED
- 50-60 minutes
Getting Ready
- Screen time recommendation: What you Need to Know
Activity Steps
Ask:
“What are the positive effects of spending less time on screens?” Guide discussion to include:
- Sleep
- Physical health and activity
- Healthy eating habits
- Time spent with family and friends
- Mental wellbeing
Screen time: What you Need to Know document can be used to support and guide discussion
Ask:
“Did you notice any changes in your health or wellbeing when you spent less time using screens?”
Prompts:
- Was your sleep better?
- Were you more active?
- Did you spend more time with family and friends?
- Mental wellbeing?
- Did you have more time for hobbies and interests?
- Did anything surprise you?
Encourage pupils to share both positive experience and any challenges they faced.
Ask:
What do they think the recommendations for screen time are?”
Ask:
“Why do you think we have these recommendations?
Reflection
Ask:
- What have you learned from taking part in the Be Screen Smart Challenge
- What screen free activities did you try?
- Do you think you will make any changes to how you spend your free time?
- Do you think your life would be different, or even better, if you spent less time using screens?
- What advice would you give to another young person taking part in the challenge?
Celebration
Give a certificate of participation to every pupil.
Acknowledge the effort pupils made, regardless of how much they reduced their screen time.
Youth Provider
Overview
Thank you for agreeing to participate in the “Be Screen Smart” project. There are many benefits to using screens/digital devices; academically, professionally and recreationally. However children & young people are spending too much time with screens. Young people need to be informed and supported in understanding the impact too much screen time can have on their health, relationships and academic performance.
It is important to assist young people and their families to find the right balance, fun and engaging alternatives to screen time, opportunities to explore their own ideas and creations, enjoy each other’s company and take pleasure in the world around them.
Aim
Youth Providers to make their service/youth group incorporate more screen-free activities and to discuss with young people the harm of spending too much time in front of screens.
Objectives
- Young People to be able to identify how too much screen time can impact on health, relationships & academic performance.
- To take responsibility of how they manage their screen time.
- To explore screen-free activities.
- To make positive changes to reducing screen time.
National Youth Work Strategy
The National Youth Work strategy sets out outcomes for young people through youth work. https://www.youthlinkscotland.org/policy/youth-work-outcomes/outcome-5/
Outcome 5: Young people consider risk, make reasoned decisions and take control
Outcome 5 explores whether young people understand the consequences of harmful behaviour, know where to go to access information and support, and can assess that information to ensure it is appropriate and helpful. Outcome 5 also focuses on young people taking responsibility for the decisions they make.
Implementation
By implementing the changes below within your youth establishment we hope to help young people understand the impact too much screen time can have on health, relationships and academic performance and how to include screen-free activities into their free time while cutting down on the time they spend on screen-based activities such as watching TV, surfing the internet, playing computer games or spending time on social media.
Young people can be empowered to understand the consequences of spending too much time on screens and take responsibility for the decisions they make about screen time.
To reach optimal results from the Be Screen Smart project your establishment could implement the following:
- Introduce the Be Screen Smart project to the young people within your establishment.
- Share Screen Time Guidelines.
- Inform young people about the benefits of reduced screen time.
- Discuss how young people could reduce screen time and participate in screen free activities.
- Develop creative programmes which would encourage young people to focus on screen time issue, (examples: art project focusing on screen time, young people produce screen-free diaries & share with others, develop a drama exploring screen time).
- Request that young people volunteer over their phones for the duration of your youth group/service.
- Introduce a monthly screen free night.
- Run a 50/50 weekly night where during half the duration of your youth group/service screen activities will be off and the other half time screen activities could be on.
- Encourage young people to earn screen time, so to get on the computers/screens young people would need to participate in non-screen activities to earn time on the computer/screens.
- Introduce the Be Screen Smart project to parent’s via parent workshops. Invite parents to your establishment to inform them that their child will be taking part in the Be Screen Smart project and that parental involvement & parental support is crucial at home.
- Share Screen Time Family Tips PowerPoint presentation at parent workshops & social media accounts.
- Ensure the Parent/Guardian Be Screen Smart Pledge is sent home.
- Come up with creative ways your establishment could promote screen free activities and encourage awareness of the impact of too much screen time on young people.
2 Ways to take the Be Screen Smart Challenge
1. Reduce & Replace: Reduce screen-time to 1 hour or less at your setting. Encourage YP to earn the time they can spend on screens by taking part first in non-screen activities. For example: 1 hour of physical activity can earn 1 hour of screen time, 15 minute board game can earn 15 minute screen time, 30 minute screen free-activity can earn 30 minute screen time.
2. Go Screen-Free: have a strict no screen rule during your youth group.
As you embark on this project please note that an enthusiastic attitude will help young people in their efforts to reduce the time they spend on screens for entertainment. If the youth worker/s also takes part in the project and reduces his/her entertainment screen time and shares his/her attempt to reduce entertainment screen time with the young people this will help in encouraging young people to do so too. Please also consider other ways your establishment can support this attempt.
Thank you for your commitment to improving the health of young people in Glasgow.
Health Improvement Team
(This resource has been developed by the North West Health Improvement Team for Glasgow City)
