There has been a debated stance that children below the age of three should have no screen time, but research indicates that digital technology can offer valuable opportunities for the development of young children.
The study, titled Toddlers, technology and talk, was funded by the Economic and Social Research Council and conducted by researchers from Manchester Metropolitan University, Lancaster University, Queen’s Belfast University, Strathclyde University, and Swansea University. It explored children’s interactions with various technologies in diverse communities, specifically focusing on the impact of technology on language and literacy skills of children aged 0 to 3 in the UK.
The research delved into how children engage with technology, whether with their parents or independently, through activities like taking photos, playing games using educational apps, listening to music, discussing favorite characters, and video calling.
Studies have shown that children start using smart devices and technology at a young age, and this can be beneficial for their language development and other skills.
The report highlights that young children’s digital activities involve various forms of sensory exploration which contribute to their cognitive development.
Parents acknowledge the advantages of technology for their children’s development, but they are also concerned about potential negative impacts from excessive technology usage.
The report also discusses how video calls provide valuable opportunities for children in multilingual families to learn different languages and cultures from their overseas relatives.
The study involved surveys with 1,400 UK parents, 40 home case studies, interviews with 20 education experts, and analysis of families’ TV viewing habits. It revealed that children could learn words and phrases from watching TV shows that they were passionate about.
Furthermore, shared TV viewing and music listening create bonding experiences for parents and children, nurturing emotional connections over time.
Even in homes where the TV is on throughout the day, children engage in various play and learning activities and may not pay much attention to the TV.
Some parents reported that their children under the age of 3 were learning sign language online, showcasing how young children adapt to interacting with smart devices.
The report emphasizes the need for better protection of children’s privacy and security in the digital age and hopes to guide policy and practices based on its findings.
Professor Rosie Flewitt from MMU acknowledges the challenges of balancing the benefits of digital communication, play, and learning for children with concerns about potential risks of overuse.
Source: www.theguardian.com
