In 2016, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) published guidelines related to the amount of time children spend on electronic media, i.e., television/TV, computers, phones, tablets, and other electronic devices. Interestingly, but not surprisingly, the AAP recommended essentially no time with electronic media for children under 18 months of age and up to an hour daily of adult-guided, time with high-quality electronic media for those ages two to five. According to the AAP, children over age five should have set limits on the amount of time they are exposed to electronic media. Some of the reasons for limiting time spent with electronic media? Too much time can adversely impact young children in the following areas:
- physical activity
- hands-on exploration
- social interaction
- sleep quality
Though learning takes place across the lifespan, there are many critical early developmental milestones waiting to be met from early infancy through preschool. Time spent on electronic media is time spent away from opportunities for critical learning and development. So, how can we help children avoid the potentially detrimental role electronic media may have on their development? Interaction.
Interaction may come in many forms; however, the most critical form of interaction involves interactive play. Interactive play is essential for children’s development in a variety of areas. In fact, interactive play is but one of many types of play. Solitary and interactive play, as many other areas of development, must be shaped and formed via exposure to and through a variety of experiences. Play, which can be directly impacted by too much time spent with electronic media, is a key element in helping young children learn to understand their world so that they can grow and develop in a variety of ways.
If you or someone you know needs the services of a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist, please be sure to discuss your concerns with a physician, a speech-language pathologist, or another qualified provider. You can also find a provider through the ASHA ProFind service or visit us at www.bilingualspeech.org for more information. NOTE: This article is intended only as a general source of information, i.e, it is not intended to replace information given to you by a qualified health professional that is familiar with your particular circumstances. If you have an urgent medical need, please seek immediate medical attention.
REFERENCES
American Academy of Pediatrics. American Academy of Pediatrics Announces New Recommendations for Children’s Media Use. Retrieved on February 11, 2018 from https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/pages/american-academy-of-pediatrics-announces-new-recommendations-for-childrens-media-use.aspx.