Experts warn of declining play and self-soothing skills in children due to increased screen time

This article was created by AI using a video recording of the meeting. It summarizes the key points discussed, but for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Link to Full Meeting

The NPS Healthy Kids Forum held on January 2, 2025, in Newton City, MA, focused on the impact of screen time on children's development and the importance of play in fostering language skills. The meeting featured discussions led by experts in child development, including a speech pathologist and educators, who highlighted concerning trends observed in students.

The forum began with a presentation from the director of the Newton Association of Child Professionals (NACP), who noted a decline in children's ability to engage in traditional play activities. The speaker emphasized that many children are not utilizing low-technology play materials, such as blocks and games, which are crucial for language development. The expert pointed out a significant correlation between play and language skills, indicating that children are experiencing delays in these areas.

Screen time was identified as a major factor contributing to these developmental issues. The speaker urged parents to monitor the content their children consume, particularly on platforms like YouTube Kids, which may not always provide appropriate material. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen time for preschool-aged children to one hour per day, with no screen time for children under two, except for video calls with family.

The discussion also addressed the challenges children face when transitioning from technology-rich environments to settings like preschools, where such devices are not available. Many children are reportedly struggling with self-regulation and self-soothing, skills that are essential for emotional well-being. The panelists stressed the importance of family interactions, such as watching movies together and discussing the content, to enhance language development and emotional skills.

Jesse, another panelist, expanded on the mental health implications of excessive screen time, noting that it can lead to reduced physical activity, social skill deficits, and sleep disruptions. He highlighted a noticeable increase in students lacking essential skills, such as self-soothing and problem-solving, which were once more common among children entering school.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for parents and educators to work together to foster healthier habits around technology use and to prioritize play as a vital component of child development. The panelists emphasized that explicit teaching of self-regulation and coping skills is becoming increasingly necessary in today's technology-driven society.

Converted from NPS Healthy Kids Forum with Holiday Buying Guidance meeting on January 02, 2025
Link to Full Meeting