The Impact of Technology on 23 Month Old Toddler Development
As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, it is becoming an increasingly integral part of our daily lives. From smartphones and tablets to smart TVs and virtual reality, technology has become a ubiquitous presence in our homes and workplaces. And while it has undoubtedly brought many benefits and conveniences, there is also growing concern about its impact on the development of young children, including 23-month-old toddlers.
In the past two decades, the use of technology by young children has drastically increased. According to a study by Common Sense Media, in 2017, 42% of children under the age of eight had their own tablet device, compared to just 1% in 2011. Additionally, the average screen time for children under the age of eight has gone up to 2 hours and 19 minutes per day, with 30% of toddlers having their own mobile device by the age of two.
While technology can be a useful tool for learning and entertainment, it is important to understand its potential impact on the development of 23-month-old toddlers. Here are some ways in which technology may affect a toddler’s development:
1. Delay in Language Development
Language development is a critical aspect of a toddler’s growth and is largely influenced by the environment and interactions with caregivers. However, excessive screen time may hinder this development. A study by the University of Toronto found that for every 30 minutes of screen time, there was a 49% increased risk of delayed speech in 24-month-old toddlers. This is because screen time takes away from face-to-face interactions and opportunities for language development through conversation and play.
2. Impact on Social Skills
Toddlers at the age of 23 months are learning important social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and understanding emotions. However, when exposed to excessive screen time, they miss out on crucial opportunities to learn and practice these skills. A study by the University of Michigan found that toddlers who spent more time on screens had lower social skills, including the ability to make eye contact, read facial expressions, and show empathy.
3. Disrupted Sleep Patterns
Toddlers at the age of 23 months should be getting 11-14 hours of sleep per day. However, the use of technology, especially in the evening, can disrupt their sleep patterns. The blue light emitted from screens can suppress the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. This can lead to difficulty falling asleep and a decrease in the overall quality of sleep, which can impact a toddler’s development and behavior.
4. Reduced Physical Activity
Toddlers at this age are full of energy and love to explore and move around. However, excessive screen time can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which can have negative effects on their physical development. According to a study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, screen time in toddlers was associated with lower levels of physical activity and increased risk of being overweight or obese.
5. Exposure to Inappropriate Content
The Impact of Technology on 23 Month Old Toddler Development
With the vast amount of content available on the internet, toddlers are at risk of being exposed to inappropriate and potentially harmful content. This includes violence, sexual content, and advertising. Exposure to such content at a young age can have a negative impact on a toddler’s emotional and psychological development.
So, what can parents do to mitigate the potential negative impact of technology on their 23-month-old toddler’s development? Here are some tips:
1. Set Limits and Monitor Screen Time
It is essential to set limits on screen time for toddlers. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no screen time for children under 18 months and a maximum of one hour per day for children between 18-24 months. Parents should also monitor the content their child is exposed to and ensure it is age-appropriate.
2. Engage in Face-to-Face Interactions
Parents should prioritize face-to-face interactions with their 23-month-old toddler. This includes having conversations, playing games, and reading books together. These interactions are crucial for language development and social skills.
3. Encourage Physical Activity
To counteract the sedentary lifestyle brought on by technology, parents should encourage their toddlers to engage in physical activities such as outdoor play, dancing, and other forms of exercise. This not only promotes physical development but also helps in developing gross motor skills.
4. Use Technology as a Tool
Instead of using screens as a means of entertainment or distraction, parents can use technology as a tool for learning. There are many educational apps and programs specifically designed for young children that can help in their cognitive development.
In conclusion, while technology can bring many benefits, it is important for parents to be mindful of its potential impact on their 23-month-old toddler’s development. By setting limits, prioritizing face-to-face interactions, and promoting physical activity, parents can help their toddlers thrive while navigating the digital world.
Summary:
Technology has become a ubiquitous presence in our homes, and its use by young children, including 23-month-old toddlers, has drastically increased in the past two decades. Excessive screen time can have a negative impact on a toddler’s development, including delayed language development, reduced social skills, disrupted sleep patterns, reduced physical activity, and exposure to inappropriate content. To mitigate these potential effects, parents should set limits and monitor screen time, prioritize face-to-face interactions, encourage physical activity, and use technology as a tool for learning.