https://www.medpagetoday.com/pediatrics/generalpediatrics/105970

“Screens can disrupt or displace interactions with caregivers and limit opportunities for verbal exchanges, which can impair communication and social skills. Passive screen time, such as mindlessly watching television or videos, may not allow children to practice interactive problem-solving skills.”

–Dr. Jason Nagata of the University of California San Francisco.

Toddlers who stare at a screen–whether it’s a video, television, or cell phone—have a greater likelihood of development delays, according to a Japanese study. The more time they spend using these devices, the worse they are in communication and problem-solving, according to Taku Obara, PhD, of Tohoku University in Sendai, Japan, and colleagues writing in JAMA Pediatrics. 

Communication developmental delay for two-year olds getting two hours of screen time per day was 61% more likely compared to one-year olds getting one hour of screen time, according to the study. It was twofold more likely with 2 hours to less than 4 hours a day, and nearly fivefold more likely with 4 or more hours of screen time per day.

A word of caution to parents who depend on television or a cell phone to entertain their toddler while they’re busy: Don’t do it. Kids thrive when they are interacting with other people and playing outdoors, not passively sitting in front of a screen where no one reacts to them.