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This ad-hoc report published by the Network of Experts working on the Social dimension of Education and Training (NESET) explores the relationship between screen time and academic achievement in children and young people. 

It identifies several possible mechanisms linking high screen time with changes in brain development and functioning in vulnerable developmental periods, changes in executive functioning, loss of sleep and decreased psychological well-being and mental health, which in turn may negatively affect academic performance. 

Key findings indicate that the impact of screen time varies significantly based on:

1. Purpose of use: Educational screen time tends to have positive effects on academic achievement, while passive consumption for entertainment is generally associated with poorer outcomes.
2. Age-specific effects: The influence of screen time differs across age groups. For infants and toddlers, excessive screen exposure may negatively impact brain development, particularly in language acquisition. However, interactive screen time with parental support can support language development, as interaction with caregivers at this age is a primary source of learning. In elementary school, moderate screen use can enhance language outcomes, but prolonged exposure may lead to attention problems and decreased literacy and numeracy skills. Adolescents show mixed results, with some studies indicating negative effects on cognition, while others suggest improved performance in areas like numeracy and literacy with educational screen use.
3. Threshold effects: Research suggests that screen time exceeding 2-3 hours per day is generally associated with worse outcomes in learning, academia, and mental health. However, moderate use within recommended limits shows minimal negative effects.
4. Socioeconomic factors: Children from disadvantaged backgrounds are disproportionately affected by negative impacts of screen time and benefit less from educational screen use compared to their more advantaged peers.
5. Health behaviours: Adherence to health guidelines for physical activity, sleep, and screen time yields the best outcomes. Time spent in nature ("green time") may also buffer against negative effects of screen time.
6. Mental health: Excessive screen time, particularly social media use, is associated with lower well-being and increased risk of mental health issues, especially among adolescent girls. However, moderate and active use of social media can promote peer bonding and social capital.