The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, established by Kate Middleton in 2021, has initiated a significant research project examining the impact of digital devices on young children. Announced on November 23, 2025, this study is funded with a budget of £100,000 and aims to investigate the phenomenon known as ‘technoference,’ which refers to the disruption in parent-child interactions caused by technology.
The announcement follows a heartfelt essay written by the Princess of Wales, where she emphasized the importance of human connection in a rapidly digitalizing world. In her recent article, titled “The Power of Human Connection in a Distracted World,” Middleton highlighted the challenges faced by families in nurturing emotional and social skills amid increasing screen time.
In the essay, she noted, “For babies and young children, the pull of screens will be even stronger than for older children and adults, the habits more deeply ingrained as they grow.” This insight reflects her concern that while children today may be more connected digitally, they are also experiencing increased isolation and loneliness.
The study will focus on ways to enhance family connections during the early developmental stages of children, specifically exploring strategies to balance technology use. Christian Guy, Executive Director of the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, commented on the project, stating, “Nurturing relationships between babies, young children, and the adults in their lives are critical to the development of the core social and emotional life skills, which we know are the foundations of a healthy, happy, and connected society in the future.”
A recent survey conducted by Savanta in August 2025 revealed that 66 percent of adults in the UK expressed a desire for more support in achieving a healthier balance between technology and family life. This statistic underscores the relevance of the foundation’s research as it seeks to provide resources for parents and practitioners alike.
The Centre’s initiative comes at a time when discussions around digital device usage and its effects on family dynamics are increasingly pertinent. Previous studies have highlighted the negative impacts of excessive technology use, yet there remains a need for more targeted research on how to mitigate these effects and strengthen family bonds.
In her first public speech in two years at the Future Workforce Summit held in London, Kate Middleton reiterated the significance of early relationships in shaping emotional health. She stated, “The love we feel in our earliest years fundamentally shapes who we become and how we thrive as adults.” The Princess emphasized the necessity of maintaining genuine connections through shared experiences, such as family dinners and meaningful conversations.
As the research progresses, findings will be utilized to develop practical resources aimed at assisting families in navigating the complexities of modern parenting in a digital age. The goal is to create environments that foster resilience and belonging for children, laying the groundwork for healthier relationships in the future.
This initiative reflects the Royal Foundation’s commitment to addressing contemporary challenges in child development, demonstrating a proactive approach to ensuring that the well-being of future generations is prioritized amid the distractions of digital technology.
