When Screens Hinder Words: What Every Parent Should Know

💬 Why is this topic so important?

Today, our children are growing up in a world full of screens. Phones, tablets, televisions… they’re everywhere. But did you know that using screens too early, especially from age 1, can slow down a child’s language development ?

🧐 What the studies say

A major Japanese study published in JAMA Pediatrics followed over 7,000 children between the ages of 1 and 4. Researchers observed that the more children were exposed to screens at age 1, the more difficulty they had communicating at ages 2 and 4.

✅ For example, children who spent more than 4 hours per day in front of a screen at age 1 were almost 5 times more likely to have language delays at age 2 !
And at age 4, these delays were still noticeable.

Another Australian study found that every minute spent in front of a screen meant fewer words heard, fewer words spoken, and fewer interactions between parents and children.

💪 Why language needs real interactions

To learn how to speak, a child needs to talk, listen, look at adults’ faces, play, and ask questions. Screens don’t respond, don’t adapt to the child, and don’t laugh with them. A screen can’t replace a mom or a dad.

⚠️ Too many screens, too early: what are the risks?

🤯 Language delay (difficulty finding words, making sentences)
📉 Lower attention span
🤔 Difficulty understanding or being understood
😔 Less creativity and imaginative play

🌟 What does the WHO (World Health Organization) recommend ?

Before age 2: ❌ No screens. Prefer stories, songs, and games.
Between 2 and 4 years old: ✅ Maximum 1 hour per day, with an adult to explain what’s happening.

📚 A few screen-free activity ideas

Read a story together
Sing or dance
Build with blocks
Draw or color
Go for a walk and explore the surroundings

✨ In summary

Screens are not the enemy, but they should not replace parents. To grow up well, a child needs to listen, talk, play, dream — and above all, spend quality time with those who love them.

Paradis Kids encourages every family to make informed choices for the healthy development of their children.

🔗 Sources:

JAMA Pediatrics (2023): “Screen Time at Age 1 Year and Communication and Problem-Solving Delays”
The Guardian: “Technoference study: 1,000 fewer words heard by toddlers with screens”
WHO Guidelines on Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour and Sleep for Children Under 5 Years of Age (2019)