Screen-based media use and language and literacy skills in preschoolers

Even very young children now commonly spend substantial time with screens (phones, tablets, TVs, etc.) and screen time including the use of digital media devices is increasing. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has recommended limits on screen time based on concerns regarding its cognitive-behavioral risks. However, relatively little evidence is available on the effects of screen time on the brain development of young children. A new study of 47 prekindergarten children published in JAMA finds that screen time is negatively associated with measures of language and literacy. In addition, higher reported screen-based media use was associated with lower microstructural integrity of brain white matter tracts involved with language, executive function, and emergent literacy abilities controlling for child age and household income. This study adds to the evidence supporting the AAP’s concerns and points to the need for further research. Hutton JS, Dudley J, Horowitz-Kraus T, DeWitt T, Holland SK. Associations Between Screen-Based Media Use and Brain White Matter Integrity in Preschool-Aged Children. JAMA Pediatr. 2020;174(1):e193869. doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2019.3869