A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics has found that longer screen time at age 1 can have a negative effect on children’s development at ages 2 and 4. The study included 7,097 children and their parents from Japan and assessed their screen time habits and developmental skills. The findings revealed that infants with longer screen time at age 1 were at a higher risk of experiencing developmental delays in communication and problem-solving skills at ages 2 and 4. This research adds to the growing body of evidence that increased screen time in infants and young children contributes to developmental delays in various areas, including communication, problem-solving, and social skills.
Experts are urging parents to limit screen time in infants and young children to support their development. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) discourages screen time for children under the age of two and recommends several guidelines for parents to follow. These guidelines include limiting media use as much as possible, having an adult present during screen time, choosing high-quality programming, and viewing media with the child.
Although it may be difficult for parents to completely eliminate screen time for their children, reducing it can still have a positive effect on their development. Additionally, being intentional about the content that children are exposed to and ensuring that it is age-appropriate and educational can also help mitigate the negative effects of screen time.
While some forms of screen time, such as educational content, may have benefits for younger children, it is important for parents to view and teach alongside their children during screen time. Interacting with the child during screen time and discussing what they are experiencing can enhance their learning experience.
It is also important for parents to build a routine for their children that includes other types of play and interaction that do not involve screens. Being a role model for children by limiting their own screen time is also crucial in promoting healthy screen habits.
In conclusion, the study highlights the negative impact of longer screen time at age 1 on children’s development at ages 2 and 4. Experts recommend limiting screen time in children under the age of 2 and following the guidelines provided by the AAP. While some types of screen time may be beneficial, it is important for parents to be actively involved and ensure that the content is age-appropriate and educational.