Parents Beware! Excessive Screen Time May Slow Your Toddler’s Learning, Study Reveals Shocking Findings

A recent study involving 20 Latin American countries suggests that too much screen time, including television and smartphones, may slow language development in toddlers. However, exposure to books and shared screen time with adults can have a positive impact on their learning skills.

How the Study Was Conducted

Researchers analysed data from 1,878 toddlers aged 12 to 48 months between August 2021 and March 2023. The study assessed screen usage, book exposure, and shared media engagement based on parent-reported surveys. Additionally, researchers considered socioeconomic factors like parental education, occupation, and access to learning resources.

Impact of Screen Time on Language Development

The study, published in PLOS ONE, found that television and background TV were the most used media, with toddlers being exposed for over an hour daily. This high screen exposure was linked to weaker language skills. Researchers observed that children from lower-income families had limited access to books and educational content, further impacting their language development.

Positive Effects of Books and Shared Screen Engagement

Toddlers who engaged with books or watched screens with adults demonstrated better language skills. The study highlighted that shared screen time with parents or guardians, along with exposure to educational content, helped improve vocabulary and communication abilities.

Key Findings and Future Suggestions

The research supports previous studies indicating that excessive screen use may delay early language milestones. While screen time is unavoidable, the study suggests that controlled screen exposure with adult interaction and educational content may help balance its effects. Researchers also recommend further studies to better understand how different screen activities impact toddler development.

By managing screen time and encouraging book reading, parents can support their child’s language growth while minimising the negative effects of digital exposure.