Screen Time Exposure and Children's and Adolescents' Health. A Position Paper from the European Academy of Paediatrics ( <scp>EAP</scp> ) and European Confederation of Primary Care Paediatricians ( <scp>ECPCP</scp> )

AIM: This position paper aims to synthesize current evidence on the effects of screen exposure on children's and adolescents' physical, mental and social health, critically review existing international and European guidelines, and propose coordinated, harmonized and age-appropriate recommendations for policymakers, paediatric societies, healthcare professionals, educators and families. METHODS: A narrative review of the scientific literature was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE and Google Scholar, alongside a review of international and national policies and guidelines issued by the World Health Organization, paediatric societies and governmental agencies. Evidence on the health effects of screen exposure and existing recommendations were narratively synthesized to inform recommendations from the EAP and ECPCP. RESULTS: Early and prolonged exposure to screens has been associated with adverse cognitive, socio-emotional and physical outcomes. National and international agencies and scientific associations recommend limits on screen time and age-appropriate restrictions, emphasizing high-quality content while minimizing displacement of sleep, physical activity and social interaction. Despite these recommendations, substantial variability exists across countries, and a unified European strategy is lacking. CONCLUSION: We emphasize the value of addressing screen exposure as a public health priority in the digital era and suggest that coordinated strategies be implemented to protect the health and development of children across Europe.