Impact of Excessive Screen Time on Early Childhood Learning Skills

Screens are deeply integrated into modern daily life, but emerging research highlights potential negative effects of excessive screen exposure during early childhood. A recent study suggests that spending too much time in front of screens may hinder the development of language and learning skills in young children. This is because children learn most effectively through hands-on experiences—touching, exploring, and interacting with real objects—rather than passive screen viewing.

For instance, grasping a real banana involves experiencing its texture, smell, and appearance from different angles, which helps children form meaningful connections and understanding. Simply observing a picture or animation cannot replace these multisensory interactions, which are vital during the formative years.

Psychologist Sarah Kucker from Southern Methodist University emphasizes that low screen time is advisable during the initial years as these are the critical periods for brain and language development. However, not all digital media are detrimental; some can support learning, especially when used socially. For example, video calls with family members teach children about conversations and social cues, while interactive apps can enhance engagement and learning.

Experts recommend some practical strategies for parents to optimize screen time: asking why they are using screens, ensuring social interaction through videos or games, choosing media that promotes interaction and thinking, and balancing screen use with real-world conversations. Narrating daily activities, like cooking or cleaning, also helps children develop language skills.

In summary, while screens can be beneficial when used thoughtfully, they should not replace real-world play and interaction during the critical early years. Focused, social, and interactive digital media, combined with plenty of real-life experiences, can support healthier development outcomes.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-screen-skills.html