Story perspectives

High Screen Time Before Age 2 Alters Kids' Brain Development

1/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

A Singapore study from the Growing Up in Singapore Towards Healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) cohort tracked 168 children and linked high screen exposure before age two to lasting brain changes, higher anxiety, and slower adolescent decisions.
The findings suggest early screen time may accelerate maturation of vision and cognitive-control networks, affecting later performance.
The Ministry of Health advises no screen exposure for children under 18 months, and stresses parental involvement.

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Story summary

A Singapore study from the Growing Up in Singapore Towards Healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) cohort tracked 168 children and linked high screen exposure before age two to lasting brain changes, higher anxiety, and slower adolescent decisions.
The findings suggest early screen time may accelerate maturation of vision and cognitive-control networks, affecting later performance.
The Ministry of Health advises no screen exposure for children under 18 months, and stresses parental involvement.