National vows to limit screen time in primary schools, early childhood centres
The New Zealand National party has proposed a ban on screen time in early childhood education centers and restrictions for primary school students in years 1-3. The policy aims to prioritize traditional learning methods like handwriting and books, citing concerns over the impact of digital devices on child development.
Why it matters
This reflects a growing global debate among policymakers regarding the long-term cognitive and social impacts of early childhood exposure to digital technology.
A re-elected National government wants to ban screen time in early childhood education centres and intends to limit screen use in years 1 to 3.
The party said it wanted a greater emphasis on books, handwriting, conversation, hands-on activities and direct interaction with teachers and other children.
National's education spokesperson Erica Stanford said New Zealand was not alone in reconsidering how much time children spent learning through screens, with the international direction showing that, particularly for young children, digital did not automatically mean better.
"There is also growing evidence about the importance of handwriting and learning by hand. Forming letters helps children learn and retain information. When children are first learning to read and write, that matters," she said.
"Technology still has a place in education, but it should enhance learning, not become the default way children learn," Stanford said.
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