Toddler Talk: Screen Time Slashes Vocabulary

Government research from The Children of the 2020s study reveals a potential link between extensive screen time and reduced vocabulary in toddlers. When children aged 24-28 months were exposed to approximately five hours of screens daily, they could articulate only 53% of tested words. This contrasts sharply with toddlers with under an hour of screen time, who understood 65% of the same words.

Responding to these findings, the government is set to publish its inaugural official guidance concerning screen time for children under five in April. This proactive measure aims to address concerns raised by the study, which involved over 4,700 primary caregivers. The guidance will likely offer recommendations to parents navigating the digital landscape with young children.

Beyond vocabulary, experts caution that excessive screen use can affect a child's developing brain. Potential impacts include diminished attention spans, negative effects on mood and mental health, sleep deprivation, and disrupted reward systems. The early years are crucial for cognitive development, making mindful screen time management essential for children's overall well-being and future capabilities.