Giving a phone to a crying child has serious consequences — It delays speech development

Early exposure of children to phones, tablets, and other digital devices is one of the most concerning issues for parents in the modern era. Especially, the increase in screen time intensifies discussions about its effects on the child's physical, psychological, and social development. So, from what age is screen use considered risky, and what developmental problems can screen addiction cause in children?

Regarding this topic, pediatrician Elşən Tağıyev told Demokrat.az that screen addiction in children has become one of the most worrying issues for parents in the modern era.

“Today, it is possible to encounter a similar situation in almost every family: the child is crying, given a phone or tablet, and calms down within a few seconds. Although this method provides short-term comfort for the parents, in the long term it may have certain effects on the child's development. The impact of the screen depends not only on the duration of use but also on the child’s age, the content watched, and the role of the screen in daily life. In particular, the first two years of life are considered the most sensitive period. Brain development proceeds very rapidly during this stage, and live interaction with the environment is of great importance for the child. Sound, movement, facial expressions, and physical contact are crucial elements for the child's development. However, the screen cannot fully replace this interaction. Because although the child reacts to the screen, the screen does not adapt to the child’s behavior and creates a one-sided communication.”

The pediatrician stated that regular screen use at early ages can be associated with delayed speech, shortened attention span, and sleep problems.

“In later stages, although the use of screens is not completely prohibited, it is considered essential for it to remain within certain boundaries. The problem is not the presence of the screen but its starting to replace other activities in the child’s life. If the screen replaces social play, reading books, family interaction, or physical activity in open air, certain risks may arise. Additionally, if the child becomes excessively irritable, aggressive, or shows no interest in other activities when the screen is taken away, these can be signs that require attention.”

According to him, after school age, the main issue is not the number of hours spent in front of a screen but the content and purpose of use.

“There is a significant difference between passively watching continuous videos and using educational and interactive content. One of the main points parents should pay attention to is changes in the child’s daily behavior. Feeling anxious without the screen, sleep problems, and decreased interest in real play and friendships can indicate an imbalance in screen use. In this matter, prohibition is not always the most effective method. A more useful approach is to offer the child alternative activities. Playing games together, reading books, spending time outdoors, and increasing family interaction can direct the child's attention to different directions. Moreover, every child is different, and applying the same rules to all children is not appropriate. When parents feel serious concern, the most correct step is to discuss the child's condition with a pediatrician or specialist.”