Screen Time Linked to Developmental Delays in Children, Study Finds
New research suggests that excessive screen time during early childhood may lead to developmental delays in communication, fine motor, problem-solving, and personal and social skills. The study, published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics, examined a sample size of 7,097 children and found that those who had one to four hours of daily screen time at age 1 were more likely to experience delays in these areas by age 2.
The study, conducted as part of the Japan-based Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Birth and Three-Generation Cohort Study, followed the children and their mothers from the Miyagi and Iwate prefectures. The researchers measured the amount of screen time at age 1 and assessed the children’s developmental skills at ages 2 and 4. The results showed that children with more screen time were up to three times more likely to experience delays in communication and problem-solving skills by age 2. By age 4, the risk remained only in the communication and problem-solving categories.
Dr. Jason Nagata, an associate professor of pediatrics at the University of California, San Francisco, commented on the importance of the study, noting that it fills a gap in the literature by identifying specific developmental delays associated with screen time. Previous studies have not provided as much follow-up data.
Dr. John Hutton, an associate professor of general and community pediatrics at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, expressed his concerns about the impact of screen time on young children. He mentioned that not having the opportunity to practice talking and the lack of interpersonal relationships during screen time could hinder language development and social skills. Additionally, passive screen viewing could lead to sedentary behavior and limit the opportunity to develop fine motor skills.
Other factors such as genetics, adverse experiences, and socioeconomic factors can also influence a child’s development. The study found that mothers of children with high levels of screen time were more likely to be younger, have lower household incomes, and experience postpartum depression.
The study does have limitations, including parents’ potential underreporting of screen time and overreporting of their child’s developmental progress due to social desirability bias. The authors also did not have detailed information on the specific activities during screen time.
Experts recommend limiting screen time for young children and providing alternative activities such as books, coloring materials, and toys. If screen time is necessary, opting for educational content or video chats with loved ones can be beneficial. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests considering the quality of screen time rather than just the quantity and provides resources for developing a family media plan.
In conclusion, this study highlights the potential negative effects of excessive screen time in early childhood. It emphasizes the importance of balancing screen time with other activities that promote healthy development in young children.