Researchers at Southern Methodist University in the United States conducted a study on how different kinds of media consumption affect toddlers, particularly those between 17 and 30 months old. The findings, published in a peer reviewed journal focused on pediatric development, highlight notable connections between early language growth and daily media habits. The study did not claim a universal rule, but it did reveal patterns worth considering for parents and caregivers who aim to support healthy speech and vocabulary in young children.
A total of 302 parents participated in the research. Each caregiver provided detailed information about their child’s language abilities and tracked how much time the child spent on a variety of media activities on a daily basis. The term media activities encompasses a spectrum of media usage, including watching video content on internet platforms or televisions, playing interactive video games, engaging in video chat, and reading electronic books. Parents also shared their reasons for choosing specific routines to structure and guide their child’s free time, offering context about the home environment and daily rhythm.
With data in hand, researchers compared the reported media usage with measurements of language development. They looked at the average size of vocabulary and the ability to produce two or more words in connected speech, which are important indicators of early spoken language skills. This approach allowed the team to examine correlations between how children spend their time and how their speech abilities emerge and grow over time.
The results showed a consistent pattern: when parents frequently use videos as a way to calm a child or provide entertainment, the children tended to exhibit shorter spoken expressions and a smaller repertoire of words. In practical terms, this means that heavy exposure to video content in moments of downtime may be linked with smaller language growth in the toddler years. The researchers were careful to note, however, that the impact is not uniform and can vary based on the context and purpose of media use.
Much of the negative association with language development appeared to lessen when video content served educational aims or helped strengthen social bonds. For example, when videos were utilized as a tool to support learning goals or to facilitate meaningful interaction with family members or friends through video communication, the potential drawbacks were reduced. In these scenarios, the media activity can become a conduit for language practice and social engagement rather than a distraction from it.
The study underscores a broader takeaway for families: the quality and intent behind media use matter just as much as the quantity. Caregivers who actively participate with children during media experiences, select developmentally appropriate content, and balance screen time with rich, face to face interactions tend to support more robust language development. Building routines that encourage spoken language, storytelling, and real world exploration helps children expand their vocabulary and master the rhythms of conversation. It is through these interactive moments that children practice forming words, sentences, and ideas in ways that align with typical developmental milestones.
Beyond the immediate classroom and home setting, the findings offer guidance for pediatric advisors and early childhood educators who work with families. When advising on media use, experts can emphasize a thoughtful approach that favors joint attention, pauses for verbal imitation, and opportunities for children to produce language rather than passively consuming content. The goal is to create a home environment where digital media acts as a supplement to, not a replacement for, active language practice and social interaction. Parents are encouraged to monitor not only how much media their child consumes but also the context in which it is consumed and the collaborative activities that can transform media time into meaningful language learning moments. These considerations help ensure that toddlers develop a broad and flexible vocabulary, along with the confidence to express themselves in a growing range of conversational settings.
Ultimately, the study adds to the evolving picture of early language development, showing that mindful media choices can either hinder or support linguistic growth. The takeaway for families is clear: use digital media intentionally, incorporate frequent dialogue and interactive play, and maintain a healthy balance with real world experiences. By prioritizing engaged, language rich interactions, caregivers can foster strong communication skills that lay a solid foundation for continued literacy and learning across childhood and beyond.