Big Harm for Little People
In the age of technology, it’s no surprise that screens have become a constant part of our lives. Smartphones, tablets, and TVs are often used as tools for entertainment, education, and communication. However, the impact screens have on toddlers, especially those under the age of three, is a growing concern among pediatricians, psychologists, and parents alike. While it may seem harmless to hand a toddler a device to keep them entertained for a few minutes, the long-term effects on their development are far more concerning.
The Harm Screens Cause Toddlers
1. Impaired Brain Development
The first few years of life are crucial for brain development. Toddlers are naturally curious, and their brains are wired to learn by engaging with the world around them. However, excessive screen time can interfere with this critical process. Studies have shown that too much screen time can impair brain development by limiting the amount of sensory and interactive experiences toddlers need.
Why? When toddlers watch screens, they aren't developing key skills like problem-solving, emotional regulation, or social interaction, which they would typically acquire through hands-on activities like playing with toys, exploring their environment, or interacting with caregivers.
2. Poor Sleep Patterns
Toddlers thrive on a consistent sleep schedule. Unfortunately, excessive screen time, especially before bed, has been linked to poor sleep hygiene. The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep regulation, leading to sleep delays and reduced sleep quality.
Sleep disruption not only affects a toddler’s mood but also their ability to learn and grow. Lack of sleep has been associated with behavioral problems, trouble focusing, and weakened immune systems in young children.
3. Social and Emotional Issues
Young children learn best by engaging with others. When toddlers are glued to screens, they may miss out on crucial bonding experiences with caregivers or other children. This lack of interaction can lead to social and emotional problems like difficulty forming relationships or understanding emotions.
Additionally, the content they consume on screens can sometimes be inappropriate for their age or too stimulating. Violent or fast-paced scenes can lead to fear, anxiety, or aggression in young children, even if they don’t fully comprehend what they’re seeing.
4. Delayed Language Development
Language development in toddlers is largely driven by face-to-face interaction with caregivers, where they can learn new words, gestures, and conversational skills. Screen time often reduces these meaningful interactions, which can delay the development of speech and language skills. Research has shown that children who spend too much time in front of a screen may struggle to develop vocabulary and sentence structure at an appropriate age.
What Can Be Done?
1. Set Limits on Screen Time
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under two years old should have no screen time at all, except for video chatting. For children between two and five years old, screen time should be limited to no more than one hour a day, with high-quality content that is age-appropriate. Setting clear, consistent rules about screen use in your home is a great first step in reducing its negative effects.
2. Create Screen-Free Zones
Designating certain areas of your home, such as the dining room or bedroom, as screen-free zones encourages children to engage in activities that promote learning and creativity. It also helps foster better family communication, as everyone has the opportunity to interact without distractions.
3. Encourage Alternative Activities
Toddlers benefit most from interactive and sensory experiences. Encourage playtime that involves physical movement, such as playing with blocks, puzzles, or outdoor activities like running, jumping, or playing with sand. Activities that require problem-solving, like drawing or building with Legos, can also help stimulate cognitive development. Engaging your child in storytelling, singing, or reading together are wonderful ways to bond while enhancing language skills.
4. Model Healthy Screen Habits
Children learn by watching their parents, so it’s important to set an example when it comes to screen time. If you are constantly on your phone or glued to the TV, your toddler is likely to mirror those behaviors. Instead, try to practice mindful screen use and make time for face-to-face interactions with your child. When you do use screens, try to do so together, engaging your child in the content and making it a shared experience.
5. Use Technology Mindfully
Technology can be a powerful tool when used appropriately. There are many educational apps, interactive games, and online resources that can foster learning in toddlers. However, it’s important to be selective about the content your child consumes and ensure that it aligns with their developmental needs. Always aim for quality over quantity.
6. Create a Balanced Routine
Establishing a routine that includes a healthy mix of activities—such as outdoor play, family time, creative activities, and limited screen time—can help toddlers develop a well-rounded sense of time management and prevent overreliance on technology. With consistency and structure, toddlers can learn that screen time is just one part of a balanced day.
Glow Early Learning is a screens-free learning environment for infants and toddlers. We encourage our students to play and explore the natural world over spending their days captivated by screens. We encourage our families to practice limiting screens for their entire family to improve health and wellness and increase natural joy and laughter in the home.