A study cautions that exposure to screens before the age of two may pose significant developmental risks.

      Relying on a phone or tablet to entertain your baby is not advisable.

      Screens have turned into digital pacifiers for numerous infants. Parents often resort to phones and tablets during feeding, bedtime, chores, and whenever they need a respite. A significant new study now cautions that frequent screen exposure before the age of two may pose developmental risks.

      Researchers from four universities in the UK assert that infants and toddlers under two should refrain from regular intentional screen time. The analysis connects increased screen exposure in the first two years with issues such as sleep disturbances, language delays, behavioral problems, a higher risk of obesity, nearsightedness, and later challenges in forming friendships and social interactions.

      The risks emerge early

      The study, which was commissioned by the 1001 Critical Days Foundation and carried out by the iADDICT research group, examined global research on screen usage during the critical first 1,001 days, from pregnancy to age two. It also included a survey of parents and caregivers of children under two years old. It was reported that over 70% of infants and toddlers were exposed to screens. One in ten babies frequently dozed off while watching a screen, and some children used screens for several hours a day.

      While the review does not establish a direct causal link between screens and every identified developmental issue, the message remains evident. Infants require exposure to language, physical play, sleep, eye contact, attention from caregivers, and normal social interactions. Regular screen usage can hinder these vital experiences, particularly when devices are utilized as a standard method of comfort.

      The issue of "iPad kids" begins somewhere

      This warning comes at a time when parents, educators, and health professionals are increasingly concerned about children becoming overly reliant on screens. The term "iPad kid" has become a shorthand reference for children who find it difficult to disengage from devices, anticipate constant digital engagement, or turn to screens as their primary source of comfort.

      The review indicates that these habits may develop earlier than many families realize. The concern extends beyond what infants are viewing to how rapidly screens become integrated into daily care routines. If a child is accustomed to using phones and tablets as a regular means of comfort before the age of two, it shouldn’t be surprising if they later develop an attachment to those devices.