The "Screendemic": Supporting Children in a Digital Age

In early 2026, a new term has taken hold in the UK education sector: the "Screendemic".

Recent research from the Department for Education has highlighted a growing concern for nursery managers and teachers. Data reveals that nearly 98% of two-year-olds in the UK now interact with screens every day. For many, this "passive" screen time is crowding out the vital face-to-face interactions that build language, focus, and emotional resilience.

The Impact on the Classroom: What the Data Says

As someone working on the front line of education, you are likely seeing the real-world effects of this trend. Current UK research and parliamentary reports underscore the following:

• Speech and Language Gaps: The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Wellbeing Economics recently noted that children in high screen-time households are arriving at school with the communication skills of children 12 to 18 months younger than them.

• Reduced Concentration: A 2024 study suggests that excessive screen use is linked to "weaker" executive function—the mental skills we use to manage time and pay attention. In a classroom, this looks like a child who cannot follow a two-step instruction.

• The Sleep Crisis: The NHS has linked high screen use—specifically blue light exposure—to disrupted sleep patterns. In nurseries, this manifests as "mid-morning crashes" where children become irritable or lethargic.

How BEAM ACADEMY Can Help

At BEAM ACADEMY, we view yoga and mindfulness not as a "luxury," but as a practical, evidence-based antidote to the digital world. Our approach aligns with the EYFS Statutory Framework, which prioritises personal, social, and emotional development (PSED).

1. Developing Focus through Mindful Movement

Research published in the International Electronic Journal of Elementary Education shows that mindfulness-based yoga can decrease student anxiety by up to 31%.

• Example: In a BEAM ACADEMY session, we might use "The Woodcutter" pose. This involves a vigorous chopping motion paired with a loud "Ha!" sound. It allows children to release pent-up physical energy safely, making it much easier for them to sit quietly for a story afterward.

2. Tools for Emotional Regulation

We teach breathing techniques that activate the parasympathetic nervous system. Studies indicate that just 8 weeks of teacher-guided yoga can significantly improve a young child's ability to self-regulate.

• Example: We use "Bee Breath" (Bhramari). Children close their eyes and make a gentle humming sound. The vibration is soothing for the nervous system and provides a sensory "reset" for a child who has been overstimulated by loud, fast-paced digital content.

3. Enhancing Physical Health and Co-ordination

With 82% of UK children falling short of the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity, our sessions provide a vital opportunity for movement.

• Example: Our "Yoga Journeys" involve crossing the midline of the body (e.g., reaching an arm across to the opposite foot). This is a critical developmental milestone that supports the brain's ability to process information and eventually helps with reading and writing.

Practical Tips for Your Setting

• The "Serve and Return" Rule: Prioritise back-and-forth interactions. When a child speaks, ensure eye contact and a thoughtful response to rebuild social cues lost to screens.

• The 5-Minute Reset: Use a BEAM ACADEMY "Cloud Breath" at the start of circle time. Ask children to "breathe in the clouds and blow them away." It creates a clear transition from busy play to focused listening.

• Sensory "Unplugged" Zones: Create a corner with weighted blankets, sensory bottles, and "Yoga Pose Cards." This encourages children to self-soothe using their bodies rather than seeking a digital distraction.

Empower Your Team with BEAM ACADEMY

You don’t need to be a yoga expert to bring these benefits to your setting. BEAM ACADEMY offers accredited training designed for busy professionals, aligned with National Occupational Standards:

• Early Years Yoga Training: Perfect for nursery staff, this course focuses on using storytelling to meet physical and linguistic milestones for ages 2 to 5.

• Mindfulness Teacher Training: A 35-hour accreditation that gives you the tools to lead sessions that reduce stress and improve "divergent thinking" (creativity).

• SEN Yoga Training: Specifically designed to support children with ADHD, autism, or sensory processing needs who may be particularly susceptible to screen-related overstimulation.

Our courses focus on practical outcomes, ensuring you leave with the confidence to support children's wellbeing in a digital age.