Recent research highlights the potential impact of screen time on speech development in young children. Many parents have relied on devices like smartphones and tablets to entertain their toddlers, often using them as a quick fix for distractions while managing their busy lives. However, a new study suggests that even limited screen exposure could be more detrimental than previously thought.
Presented at the 2017 Pediatric Academic Societies Meeting, the research led by Dr. Emily Thompson, a pediatrician from the Children’s Hospital in Toronto, established a correlation between screen time and speech delays in children aged six months to two years. The study involved parents of 900 children, all 18 months old, who reported the amount of time their kids spent on screens each day. Researchers then assessed the children’s language skills, focusing on vocabulary and their ability to communicate using sounds or words.
The findings revealed that with every additional 30 minutes of daily screen use, the likelihood of experiencing “expressive speech delay” increased by 49%. This research aligns with the guidelines set forth by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
AAP Recommendations
While the AAP’s recommendations may seem daunting for busy parents, they are as follows:
- For children under 18 months, avoid screen media aside from video chatting. For those aged 18 to 24 months, if parents choose to introduce digital media, they should opt for high-quality content and watch alongside their children to enhance comprehension.
- For kids aged 2 to 5 years, screen time should be limited to one hour per day, focusing on high-quality programming, with parental co-viewing encouraged.
It’s understandable that parents might feel overwhelmed by these recommendations. After all, the intention behind screen time is often to provide a brief respite for parents. If we are constantly supervising screen time, when do we find the opportunity to tackle household chores or simply enjoy a moment of peace?
Moreover, many parents may not be equipped to teach their children skills like rescuing animals during emergencies—that’s what shows like Fireman Sam are for. If it results in a slight delay in saying “juice,” perhaps that’s a trade-off worth considering.
Researchers emphasize the need for further studies to explore the full effects of screen time on children under two. “To truly provide evidence-based guidance for parents and healthcare providers, we require more comprehensive research,” Dr. Thompson told CNN.
For now, it seems like more episodes of Fireman Sam could be in order. The little ones will be grateful for it.
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Summary
A recent study has found a significant link between screen time and speech delays in young children, raising concerns for parents. The research indicates that increased screen exposure could hinder expressive speech development in toddlers. Current guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend limiting screen time and co-viewing with parents. Further research is needed to fully understand these implications.