Recent estimates from federal agencies indicate that nearly all children are using screens daily by age two. This illustrates how quickly our littlest ones are immersed in digital media. We know screen time is an increasing influence in young lives. In fact, experts agree that excessive screen time can have serious effects on children’s physical, social and cognitive development. Parents should take an active role in monitoring their children’s screen time. For children less than five years old, try to limit it to no more than one hour a day.
According to our research, there is a 28-point difference in language development between children with the least exposure to screens and children with the most. Those who spend around five hours a day on screens demonstrate significantly fewer verbal skills than peers who average only 44 minutes. Experts agree that screen time should supplement—not substitute for—quality conversations and play between children and their caregivers.
Research has shown that engaging with children away from screens in imaginative ways can greatly improve adults’ mental health as well. To ensure language, connection, and safety, experts advise slowing down to a young child’s pace. This small action can be a powerful tool for adults to help themselves alleviate stress. This level of engagement creates a safe and supportive space for exploration, practice, and growth.
“Studies suggest it helps to slow the pace down to allow little children to take their turn in the conversation. Responding to them with language that is tuned in to their interests can really help them to learn to talk.” – Danielle Matthews
Danielle Matthews further notes that parents are often seeking practical, evidence-based information to navigate the challenges of parenting in a digital age. She makes a compelling case for the importance of treating children as conversational partners, from birth on.
Interactive content that invites co-viewing, like Cbeebies Bedtime Stories, fosters engagement and co-viewing that creates shared experiences between children and their caregivers. In much the same way, educational programs such as Sesame Street have been intentionally created to build children’s early learning and language development.
“It’s all about balance. We know that too much sedentary screen time can have a negative effect on children’s development.” – Janet Cooper
During family time, avoiding background screen viewing is crucial, say experts who urge a thoughtful approach to screen time. Connected to negative sleep outcomes. They advise avoiding screen time right before bed, which can harm sleep cycles.
Children learn critical skills during their first year, making it vital for them to have ample opportunities for human interaction. Watching new content together and discussing it is tremendously important, far more so than simply letting kids watch by themselves.
“Every child’s needs and dispositions are different.” – Prof Pasco Fearon
Prof Pasco Fearon argues moderate screen time doesn’t do any damage. It can’t all be blamed on screen time. To the contrary, he actually argues that some content is good. Preschool programs crafted with soothing stories and realistic experiences empower kids to make sense of the world around them.
“Programmes like Hey Duggee, Puffin Rock, Bluey and Ranger Hamza’s Eco Quest are intentionally calm, easy to follow and repetitive.” – Kate Morton
