by Decatur, Alabama – Two North Alabama legislators are backing new pre-filed legislation that would sharply restrict screen time in early child care settings, including day care centers, preschools, and kindergarten classrooms. The proposal, House Bill 78, arrives amid rising concerns from educators and pediatric experts over how early exposure to screens affects brain development, language skills, and learning readiness.
HB78 was pre-filed last week with 19 state representatives signed on, including Rep. Terri Collins of Decatur and House Majority Leader Scott Stadthagen of Hartselle. The bill, formally titled the Healthy Early Development and Screen Time Act, directs the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education to create statewide, research-based screen time standards for young learners.
Purpose of the Proposed Screen Time Act
Supporters say the legislation addresses a growing disconnect between natural reading development and how digital content trains the eye to move across a screen. The aim is to reinforce foundational literacy skills while reducing early digital distractions.
“When you are on a screen, you don’t learn to read that way,” Collins said. “You learn to read in a Z pattern. That’s not how children need to learn to read.”
Rep. Jeana Ross of Guntersville, the bill sponsor and a former Alabama Secretary of Education, is leading the effort based on her background in early childhood programs.
Concerns About Early Brain Development
Ross and Collins both cite research showing that screens may interfere with key stages of neurological growth. They highlight that young children learn best through face-to-face interaction, conversation, and hands-on learning.
“She believes it’s very important that we help families understand the damage and then limit screen times,” Collins said.
Studies funded by the Alabama Women’s Commission also show how distracted caregiving and background screen exposure can reduce cognitive engagement in infants and toddlers.
Age-Based Screen Time Rules in HB78
If passed, HB78 would set strict limits for screen use in early childhood environments. The bill outlines specific caps based on developmental stages.
For children under age 2:
• No screen time allowed except live video calls with family.
For children ages 2 to 4:
• Limit of 30 minutes per day
• Maximum of 90 minutes per week
The bill also prohibits background TV and passive screen exposure, practices linked to language delays and reduced social-emotional skills.
Pediatric Guidance Supporting the Bill
The bill draws on research from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which warns that excessive or passive exposure harms early development.
The AAP states that “overall screen time and regularly having a TV on in the background were linked with lower language and social-emotional skills,” while interactive, educational viewing with a caregiver may offer some benefits.
Requirements for Early Learning Providers
HB78 includes measures to ensure parents and educators have accessible, research-based guidance.
Key requirements include:
• Free public access to Alabama’s screen-time guidelines
• Mandatory annual training for early educators
• Possible corrective action for facilities that do not comply
These steps aim to create consistency across child care centers, preschools, and kindergarten classrooms.
How Schools View Purposeful Technology Use
Education leaders stress that technology itself isn’t the issue, but rather how and when it’s used with young learners. Morgan County Schools Superintendent Tracie Turrentine noted that screens should remain a small portion of classroom time.
“We encourage that only 5–10% of daily class time be spent on screens for research or similar activities,” she said, adding that the majority of learning should come through discussion, hands-on tasks, collaboration, and guided instruction.
Why Lawmakers Are Prioritizing This Bill
Collins said the Education Policy Committee plans to give HB78 early attention during the 2026 session, increasing the likelihood of swift passage. She referenced research showing visible differences in brain activity based on caregiver engagement.
“It’s actually harming the babies to not give them your attention,” Collins said.
The bill promotes reading, play, physical activity, and one-on-one interaction as essential tools for early growth.
When the Legislation Could Take Effect
The 2026 legislative session begins January 13. If HB78 passes, the Healthy Early Development and Screen Time Act would take effect January 1, 2027. Lawmakers say the delayed start gives schools and early learning centers ample time to update policies, train staff, and notify families.
Share Your Thoughts
How do you feel about limiting screen time in early learning settings? Share your experiences or concerns in the comments below.
