New Study Finds Link Between Screen Time and Sensory Processing Differences in Toddlers
A recent study has shed light on the potential negative effects of screen time on young children. The research, which analyzed caregiver surveys of 1,500 children, suggests that children under the age of 2 who spend excessive amounts of time in front of screens may experience sensory processing differences later in toddlerhood.
The study found that children who watched television or DVDs at 12 months of age were twice as likely as their peers to experience challenges in processing everyday sensory input by the age of 36 months. Additionally, each additional hour of screen exposure per day after 18 months of age was associated with a 20% increased likelihood of sensory processing differences.
Sensory processing issues can manifest in various ways, ranging from discomfort with clothing textures to difficulties in handling bright lights and loud noises. These issues can exist on their own or be associated with conditions such as autism, ADHD, and OCD.
It is important to note that the study could not determine the prevalence of autism, ADHD, or OCD in relation to screen time. However, previous research has demonstrated how excessive screen time can impact children’s speech, hearing, and cognitive abilities.
The lead author of the study became interested in researching the impact of screen time on young children after her own son was diagnosed with autism. This personal experience sparked her curiosity and led to this groundbreaking research.
To address these concerns, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against any screen time for children under 2 years old. For children ages 2 to 5, they advise limiting screen time to 1 hour per day. However, research shows that the majority of children under 5 are surpassing these recommended limits.
Experts caution against solely blaming screen time for sensory differences, as they can also be influenced by other factors in the home or pre-existing sensory differences in children. Regardless, decreasing screen time can be a challenge for parents, given the prevalence of screens in today’s society.
Barriers to reducing screen time include a lack of affordable alternative activities, parental fatigue, and feelings of guilt. To tackle this issue, experts recommend a holistic approach that identifies barriers to decreasing screen time and promotes healthy developmental activities for children.
While it may be difficult to completely eliminate screen time for children, it is crucial for families to be mindful and strive for a balanced approach. By being aware of the potential consequences of excessive screen time and making conscious efforts to provide alternative activities, parents can foster healthier developmental outcomes for their children.
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