A prior study in Canada had found the effects of screen time on children aged 2 to 5. The latest research reveals the impact on toddlers as young as 1 for the first time.
Researchers from Chiba University and a national child health center in Japan assessed the development of problem-solving skills, personal and social skills, communication skills, gross motor skills like jumping and fine motor skills such as picking up objects. Regarding the risk of developmental delay at age 4, associations were identified in the communication and problem-solving domains.
"I hope this study will help think about media exposure at home," said Midori Yamamoto, a member of the group and assistant professor at Chiba University's Center for Preventive Medical Sciences.