The Effects of Screen Time on Early Childhood Development

A study published in Psychological Medicine suggests that screen time during infancy may have long-term effects on brain development and socio-emotional competence in children. The research, which focused on children from the Growing Up in Singapore Towards healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) study, found that early and excessive screen exposure could disrupt the typical developmental trajectory of brain networks crucial for managing emotions and cognitive control. However, engaging in enriching activities like parent-child reading may mitigate the negative impact of screen time on brain network integration. The study highlights the importance of balancing screen time with interactive activities for promoting healthy development and well-being in children.