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Early Screen Time: Less is More for Little Learners

The first few years of life are a critical time for brain development. In fact, during this period, a child's brain mass triples, forming a staggering 1 million neuronal connections every second! The quality of the experiences they have during this time shapes these connections and lays the groundwork for future learning and development. This is why it's important to be mindful of screen exposure, especially for children under 3 years old.

Why Screens Aren't Ideal for Babies and Toddlers

While screens can be entertaining, they don't offer the rich sensory experiences young minds crave. Unlike the real world, screens present a flat, two-dimensional world that lacks depth perception and tactile information. This is crucial because young children are sensorial learners who learn best through hands-on exploration and interaction with their environment.

Studies have shown that excessive screen time can negatively impact a child's development in several ways:

• Brain Development: The constant barrage of stimulation from screens can hinder the formation of strong neural connections. Furthermore, screens lack the interactivity needed for children to develop important cognitive skills like problem-solving and critical thinking.
• Social and Emotional Development: Human connection is vital for healthy social and emotional development. Screens, however, lack the back-and-forth interaction that builds communication skills and emotional intelligence. These interactions, where adults respond to a child's facial expressions and vocalizations, are essential for fostering a sense of security and trust, and for laying the foundation for healthy relationships. When parents use screens in the presence of young children, it creates a "still-face" experience, which, if continued over time, can negatively impact a child's connections, sense of security, and consequently their learning and development.
• Movement and Learning: Young children are natural explorers who learn best through movement and play. Screens encourage a more sedentary lifestyle, hindering their physical and cognitive development. According to a Babilou Family study referencing 21 different sources including the WHO, AAP, UNICEF, Academy of Medicine, HSCP, 67% of doctors and 61% of parents believe that current messages about screen time are unrealistic and don't take into account the integration of technology into daily life. While some experts acknowledge the need for more longitudinal studies, there are strong correlations between excessive screen time and developmental delays, particularly in language skills.

The Babilou Family Screen Guidelines

The Babilou Family Screen Guidelines offer a helpful framework for screen time in young children, drawing on evidence from various sources including the WHO, UNICEF, and HSCP.

• 0-3 Years: Early Years Without Screens (Ideally no screens until language is well developed) - This is a time for real-world exploration and connection. Avoid screens altogether, or limit them to minimal, co-viewed experiences (ideally 30 minutes a day) for toddlers nearing 3 years old.
• 3-6 Years: Learning Through Shared Experiences (No more than 1 hour per day, with adult engagement) - Screen time can be a tool for engagement, but with limitations. Keep it to no more than an hour per day, and always with an adult present to guide the experience. Focus on high-quality content and prioritize interactive activities like board games.

For Parents of Young Children

• Screens are Not Replacements for Interaction: While screens might seem like a convenient babysitter, they can't replace the importance of face-to-face connection. Studies have shown that excessive screen exposure can negatively impact sleep and eating habits, and can create a slippery slope towards increased screen time without parents realizing it.
• Be Mindful of Your Own Screen Time: Children learn by example. Model healthy screen habits by managing your own device use and putting them away during playtime.
• Embrace the Power of Play: Unstructured play and exploration are essential for young children's development. Put away the screens and create opportunities for imaginative play and real-world experiences. There is no conclusive study that shows technology or apps accelerate learning faster than interaction with peers and adults.
• Think of Screens Like Treats: Similar to how you wouldn't offer a toddler a glass of coffee, you don't need to feel pressured to offer them your phone. Screens require guidance and training on how to use them responsibly, which young children lack.
• Passive Screen Time is Just as Detrimental: Avoid leaving the TV on in the background when children are awake. This creates a passive screen time experience that can be just as damaging as direct screen time.
• Regulation and Protection: As digital guardians, parents need to understand how to protect their children's identity online and ensure data protection. Utilize parental controls and apps to manage screen time and content.
   

The early years are critical for a child's brain development, with hands-on, real-world experiences being essential. While screens can be engaging, they lack the sensory richness young children need. The Babilou Family Screen Guidelines recommend minimal to no screen time for children under three and limited, adult-engaged screen time for those aged 3-6.

Parents should model healthy screen habits, emphasize unstructured play, and treat screens as occasional treats. By managing screen time thoughtfully, we can support children's holistic development and ensure a healthy, balanced upbringing.