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A new study has uncovered alarming links between screen time and sensory behaviors in young children, raising questions about how parents’ reliance on screens for entertainment may be impacting their kids’ development. Dr. Karen Heffler, an associate professor of Psychiatry at Drexel University, led research that indicates babies and toddlers exposed to screens may develop atypical sensory behaviors that could be precursors to disorders such as autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The Study: Key Findings
The research, which analyzed data from the National Children’s Study conducted between 2011 and 2014, involved 1,471 children across the United States. It assessed screen exposure at ages 12, 18, and 24 months, based on caregiver reports. By the time these children reached 33 months, those who had significant screen exposure before age two exhibited signs of “sensation seeking,” “sensation avoiding,” and “low registration” — behaviors that indicate a potential for atypical sensory processing.
Dr. Heffler highlighted the implications of these findings: “This association could have important implications for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism, as atypical sensory processing is much more prevalent in these populations.”
Understanding Sensory Behaviors
Atypical sensory behavior manifests as altered experiences of sensory inputs, such as sound, light, touch, taste, or smell. Some children may react strongly to everyday stimuli, finding common noises overwhelmingly loud or certain textures intolerable. Conversely, they might seek out intense sensations, enjoying rough play or tightly squeezing hugs.
This study utilized the Infant/Toddler Sensory Profile to measure sensory responses in children, revealing startling statistics regarding screen exposure:
- At 12 months, any screen time increased the likelihood of high sensory behaviors related to low registration by 105% by age 33 months.
- At 18 months, each additional hour of screen time raised the odds of high sensation-avoiding and low registration behaviors by 23%.
- By 24 months, every extra hour of screen time correlated with a 20% increase in sensation seeking and sensitivity at 33 months.
Implications for Parents
The findings present a clear warning about the developmental challenges associated with excessive screen time. Dr. Heffler suggests that toddlers showing signs of sensory processing issues may benefit from reduced screen exposure and targeted sensory processing strategies delivered by occupational therapists.
Dr. David Bennett, a professor of Psychiatry, echoed the need for parental guidance: “Parent training and education are key to minimizing, or hopefully even avoiding, screen time in children younger than two years.” The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under 18 months avoid screen time entirely and that digital media use for children aged 2 to 5 be limited and supervised.
The Reality of Screen Time Usage
Despite expert recommendations, many young children are increasingly exposed to screens. A report shows that in 2014, children under two years old in the U.S. averaged over three hours of screen time daily, a significant rise from just over an hour in 1997. This shift often results from parental fatigue and the challenges of finding affordable, engaging alternatives for entertainment in a fast-paced world.
Supporting Sensory Development
Addressing atypical sensory behaviors is crucial for children’s daily functioning and social interactions. Recognizing these behaviors allows parents and caregivers to adjust environments and experiences to better support their children. Simple changes, like dimming bright lights or creating quiet spaces, can significantly enhance comfort and ease.
Collaboration with professionals such as occupational therapists is invaluable. They can provide techniques like sensory integration therapy, helping families create sensory-friendly environments and using tools like noise-canceling headphones.
A Call to Action
The connection between early screen time and sensory processing issues is complex and warrants ongoing attention. As parents and caregivers, being mindful of screen use and staying informed can profoundly influence children’s development.
Engaging in activities that promote healthy development—such as reading, outdoor play, and imaginative interactions—can provide enriching alternatives to screen time.
Have you noticed changes in your child’s behavior related to screen time? Share your experiences to help other parents navigate this critical issue.
The study was published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and action in addressing screen time’s impact on our youngest generations.
