From teddies to tablets: New global research reveals that digital devices are being used to comfort babies and parents
The research, commissioned by the 1001 Critical Days Foundation and conducted by the iADDICT research group from four UK Universities, highlights how early experiences are shifting from human interaction to digital engagement.
The researchers reviewed thousands of studies, finding a growing body of evidence linking higher screen use in babies to poorer developmental outcomes.
The message is clear: babies under the age of two are now using screens at levels that far exceed current health guidance. This is a pressing public health issue because the foundations of future health outcomes are laid down in the time from pregnancy to age two.
HEADLINE FINDINGS:
Screen use begins early and is widespread: Screen exposure commonly begins in the first year of life, with use reported by many children before 12 months of age and sometimes as early as six months. By 24 months, screen exposure is reported to be widespread across studies, with some children exceeding two hours per day.
Higher screen exposure is linked to poorer sleep and health behaviours: Greater screen availability, particularly devices in bedrooms, and higher parental screen use are associated with shorter sleep duration and later bedtimes in young children.
Early screen exposure is linked to risks for early development: Greater screen exposure in the second year of life is associated with delayed communication and problem‑solving skills in early childhood.
Reduced interaction between babies and adults is central to the risks observed: Developmental risks associated with screen use appear partly related to screens displacing caregiver talk, joint attention, peer play and hands‑on exploration.
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