Children under the age of five should be limited to one hour of screen time a day, while under-twos should not be watching screens alone, new government guidance says.

It advises parents to steer clear of fast-paced videos and use screens together where possible. The guidance also suggests “screen swaps” - taking screens away to read stories together or playing simple games at mealtimes.

The guidance is the first evidence-backed, practical advice issued by the government, but ministers say it will be kept under review as more evidence emerges.