A new national assessment reveals that while Canada's youngest children are meeting several health benchmarks, excessive screen time remains a significant hurdle. According to the ParticipACTION 2026 Report Card, most children aged 0 to 4 are getting enough sleep and physical activity, but fewer than half are adhering to recommended digital limits.

Where are the gaps in healthy habits?

While the report highlights strengths in movement and rest, it identifies a critical imbalance in daily routines. The data shows that 67% of children met physical activity guidelines and 80% met sleep requirements. However, only 48% of children met the recommended limits for screen time.

Only one-quarter of all children in this age group met all three health recommendations—activity, sleep, and screen limits—simultaneously. The breakdown of specific age-related recommendations includes:

  • Infants (under 1 year): At least 30 minutes of tummy time daily; zero screen time recommended.
  • Toddlers (1 to 2 years): 180 minutes of physical activity; zero screen time recommended.
  • Preschoolers (3 to 4 years): 180 minutes of activity (including 60 minutes of moderate to high intensity); maximum 60 minutes of screen time.

Why is early screen time a concern?

Experts are concerned that early exposure to digital devices can create lasting lifestyle patterns. Marianne Parent, director general of the Réseau Accès Participation, noted that if screen use becomes a habit early on, it can become "anchored in the lifestyle habits of adolescents and adults" later in life.

The situation is particularly challenging for the youngest demographic. In Quebec, less than half of parents with children aged 1 to 2 follow screen time limits, with only 47% of those children restricted to the recommended 0 to 60 minutes per day. Additionally, half of all Canadian infants under one year old are already being exposed to screens, despite health guidelines suggesting no exposure before age two.

What are the movement benchmarks?

Despite the digital challenges, the report provides an encouraging baseline for physical health. The 24-Hour Movement Guidelines emphasize that movement is essential for optimal growth and development. For older toddlers and preschoolers, this means at least 180 minutes of daily activity. For the youngest infants, the focus remains on supervised movement, such as tummy time, to support development. Researchers suggest that while the current physical activity levels are a positive starting point, maintaining a healthy balance between movement, sleep, and limited sedentary behavior is vital for the next generation.