Photo by Alexander Dummer via Unsplash. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter A new study reveals a link between the amount of screen time for infants and toddlers and the risk of speech delays. Study results show that the more time babies spend with a device, the more likely they will encounter speech delays. According to a CNN report, the study is said to be the first of its kind. Looking into the effects of technology on very young children, it paints a somewhat scary picture if parents do not know how to regulate its use. Higher Screen Time, Higher Risk Researchers looked at 900 children aged 18 months and above. Parents were asked to monitor and report how much time their children spent using devices such as tablets or smartphones. Then, the toddlers’ language skills were assessed, such as use of sounds or words and their vocabulary, also at 18 months. Results show that 20 per cent of the 900 children had an average screen time of 28 minutes a day. An increase of 30 minutes daily showed a 49 per cent increased risk of expressive speech delay, the study says. This means a delay in the infant’s use of words and sounds to communicate. No link was observed between screen time and non-verbal communication skills as well as social interaction. However, the study’s principal investigator Dr. Catherine Birken told CNN that the results need to be “tempered.” This is so because the study is considered a “first look.” Further Research Needed Given that technology nowadays is so pervasive in our daily lives, its impact on young children needs a closer look. Non-profit organizations such as Common Sense Media talk about technology use for children and make recommendations. The American Academy of Pediatrics also recognizes that technology is everywhere. They recently changed their earlier recommendation of a total technology ban for ages 18 to 24 months. Instead, they now recommend that parents choose high-quality programming which they will watch with their children. Parent’s involvement in technology use is still a key factor. Dr. Birken also noted that further research needs to be done. She said, “You need trials. You need good evidence, at least longitudinal studies, but this, at least, this finding is identifying an association.” Facebook Comments
