In today’s tech world, children are introduced to screens almost from birth. While digital devices offer convenience and entertainment, their impact on children aged 0–5 years—especially in areas like brain development, social skills, language acquisition, and emotional regulation—is a growing concern among researchers and      pediatric experts.

Brain Development

The first five years of life are critical for brain growth. During this period, neural connections are formed at lightning speed, driven by sensory experiences and human interaction. Excessive screen time, particularly passive viewing (like watching videos), can displace essential activities such as play, exploration, and face-to-face communication. These are the building blocks of executive functions like attention, memory, and problem-solving.

Language Skills

Language development thrives on responsive interactions—babbling, storytelling, and conversation. When screens replace human dialogue, children miss out on the back-and-forth exchanges that teach vocabulary, grammar, and social cues. Studies show that children exposed to more screen time tend to have delayed speech and reduced expressive language abilities.

Social Skills

Social competence begins with learning to read facial expressions, share, and empathize. These skills are          cultivated through play and real-world interactions. Devices, especially when used in isolation, can limit opportunities for children to engage with peers and caregivers. This may lead to challenges in forming relationships and understanding social norms

Emotional Regulation

Young children rely on caregivers to help them navigate emotions. When screens are used as a soothing tool—say, to calm a tantrum—they may hinder the development of self-regulation. If content is not age appropriate, children are also exposed to concepts, behaviours & language they are not yet ready to understand. It is not until the age of 7 years and above that children start to understand the different between fantasy & reality.

Research suggests that frequent screen use is linked to increased emotional and behavioral problems, including anxiety, aggression, and difficulty managing frustration.

Striking a Balance

Not all screen time is harmful. Interactive, age-appropriate, educational content co-viewed with a caregiver can support learning. The key lies in moderation and mindful use. Experts recommend prioritising human interaction, outdoor play, and screen-free routines—especially during meals and bedtime.

For more information about safe online use for your child head to Parents | eSafety Commissioner