In today’s digital world, screens are everywhere—from tablets and TVs to smartphones and computers. While technology has its benefits, many parents worry about the effects of too much screen time on their toddler’s development. Can excessive screen use slow down learning, affect social skills, or delay language development? Experts suggest that excessive screen time may impact a toddler’s cognitive, social, and physical development by limiting real-world interactions, reducing active playtime, and interfering with sleep. However, when used wisely and in moderation, screens can also be a valuable tool for learning. Written by Good Night, child and sleep consultancy .
We’ve all been there – you show your two-year-old a real photograph of someone and they try to “swipe” it across. We all roll around laughing at how funny it is but this shows the deeper, underlying issue that all toddlers have a need for instant gratification that comes from too much screen time.
Every finger swipe elicits an instant response of colours, sounds and shapes. The brain responds by dumping dopamine into the system – the key component of our internal reward system that makes you feel pleasure, and can encourage feelings of addiction.
Have you ever tried to take a smart device away from a two-year-old? You will not be met with the kindest of reactions because the production of dopamine in the brain is stopped and there is no immediate response to stimuli. The world suddenly becomes boring and slow to your little one and the resulting tantrum is caused by their struggle to readjust to “real” life again.
The frontal lobe develops during the critical period between birth and three years of age, so if your child is in front of a screen for extended periods of time, they’re missing out on developing social relationships with people – playing, talking and interacting with real people – the effects of which may last forever.
Screens also have a disastrous effect on melatonin production at night. The pineal gland in the brain starts to produce melatonin in your toddler a few hours before bedtime (between 5pm and 7pm) and reaches its peak in the middle of the night. Melatonin makes us sleep well at night, it makes us sleep restfully and we wake up feeling good.
“Melatonin is our helping hand at night and using a screen in the crucial hours that it is being produced is counter-intuitive to better sleep.”
Unfortunately, putting a screen in front of your toddler at the crucial time of melatonin production will destroy the melatonin and produce cortisol instead. Often parents talk about a “second wind” that happens at around bedtime – this is due to a lack of melatonin in the body. Melatonin is our helping hand at night and using a screen in the crucial hours that it is being produced is counter-intuitive to better sleep. The blue light that is emitted from a screen is of a shorter wavelength than the red or yellow spectrum and stimulates the brain, reducing melatonin in the process.
Poor sleep from a lack of melatonin results in behavioural issues and a supressed immune system. If your toddler is constantly getting sick, check on how much screen time they’ve been exposed to in the early evenings.
Instead of switching on a screen to distract your toddler during dinnertime, rather show read a book with them or make up a dance that the whole family does when your toddler eats well. Put on some music, draw on a whiteboard and get creative. Be sure to instil a culture of “no screen time” at meals for the benefit of better-quality sleep for the whole family.
World Health Organisation screen-time guidelines
Before 2 years: Sedentary (sitting) screen time is not recommended unless it’s via a video call to family and then it should be kept brief and preferably not just before bedtime.
Toddlers (2 to 3 years): No more than 1 hour of sedentary screen time – less is better.
Preschoolers (3 to 4 years): No more than 1 hour of sedentary screen time – less is better.
This article has been specifically written for BabyYumYum by Good Night sleep consultancy expert, Jolandi Bekker. Article references available on request.
BabyYumYum Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Can Too Much Screen Time Affect Your Toddler’s Development?
What are the negative effects of too much screen time on toddlers?
Excessive screen time can impact a toddler’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Common concerns include delayed speech, reduced attention span, sleep disturbances, behavioural issues, and poor social skills due to a lack of real-world interactions.
Can too much screen time delay speech development?
Yes, research suggests that excessive screen time, especially passive viewing, may reduce opportunities for toddlers to engage in verbal interactions, which are essential for speech and language development. Children learn best through face-to-face conversations, storytelling, and interactive play.
How does screen time affect a toddler’s sleep?
Excessive screen exposure, particularly before bedtime, can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder for toddlers to fall and stay asleep. Bright screens, fast-moving animations, and engaging content can overstimulate their brains, leading to disrupted sleep patterns.
Does screen time impact a toddler’s attention span?
Frequent exposure to fast-paced screen content may affect a toddler’s ability to focus and concentrate in real-world situations. This can make it harder for them to engage in independent play, problem-solving activities, and structured learning.
Can screen time affect a toddler’s behaviour?
Yes, excessive screen use may lead to increased tantrums, impatience, and frustration, especially if screen time is abruptly limited. Some studies suggest that exposure to aggressive or overly stimulating content may contribute to emotional dysregulation.
Does screen time reduce physical activity?
Yes, prolonged screen use often replaces active play, leading to less movement, weaker motor skills, and an increased risk of childhood obesity. Toddlers need plenty of physical activity to develop coordination, strength, and overall health.
Are educational apps and TV shows beneficial for toddlers?
High-quality educational content can be beneficial in moderation. Interactive and age-appropriate programs that encourage active participation (such as singing, repeating words, or problem-solving) are better than passive screen time. However, screen-based learning should never replace real-life experiences, hands-on play, or parental interaction.
What are some signs that a toddler may be getting too much screen time?
Signs of excessive screen use include difficulty focusing on non-screen activities, irritability when screens are removed, sleep disturbances, reduced interest in social interactions, and decreased imaginative play.
How can I set healthy screen time limits for my toddler?
- Set daily screen time limits and stick to them.
- Prioritise interactive and educational content rather than passive viewing.
- Encourage alternative activities like outdoor play, reading, puzzles, and arts and crafts.
- Create screen-free zones (e.g., no screens at the dining table or in bedrooms).
- Use screens together to guide and discuss what your child is watching.
What are the best alternatives to screen time?
Toddlers thrive on active, hands-on learning experiences. Some great alternatives include building blocks, sensory play, reading books, outdoor activities, pretend play, dancing, and puzzles. Social interaction, even with family members, helps strengthen communication and problem-solving skills.
Is video calling with family members considered screen time?
Video calls are different from passive screen use because they involve real-time interaction. They can help toddlers develop social and language skills by engaging with familiar voices and facial expressions.
How can I wean my toddler off too much screen time?
Gradually reduce screen time by offering engaging alternatives and setting structured daily routines. If your toddler is used to watching a screen during meals or before bed, replace this habit with storytelling, playtime, or calming music. Be patient and lead by example by limiting your own screen use in front of them.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical or developmental advice. If you are concerned about your child’s screen time habits, consult a paediatrician or child development specialist.
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