Journal Club: Screen Time and Parent-Child Talk When Children Are Aged 12 to 36 Months

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July Journal Club

Presenters: 

• Madison Weir, M.A, The Chicago School - Anaheim
• Emily Mezni, The Chicago School - Anaheim
• Grace Mucci, Ph.D., M.S., ABPdN, ABPP

1 CE Available

Link to article

Abstract: 

The concept of “technoference” suggests that screen time may interrupt the communication between a parent and child, which is critical for early language development. This longitudinal study examined the relationship between screen time and three measures of parent-child talk from 220 Australian families once every 6 months when children were 12, 18, 24, 30, and 36 months of age. Language Environment Analysis (LENA) technology was used in homes to measure electronic noise and the child’s language environment, which included adult words, child vocalizations, and conversational turns. Adjusted linear mixed-effect models demonstrated that increased screen time was associated with decreased parent-child talk. The largest decrease was seen at 36 months when an additional minute of screen time was associated with a reduction of 6.6 adult words, 4.9 child vocalizations, and 1.1 conversational turns. The findings of this study demonstrate the importance of education and intervention related to screen time and early language development.

Objectives: 

1.Discuss the impact of “technoference” to a child’s language development

2.Learn the Language Environment Analysis (LENA) technology

3.Help guide education and intervention related to screen time and early language

The American Academy of Pediatric Neuropsychology (AAPdN) is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. AAPdN maintains responsibility for this program and its content. 

AAPdN is recognized by the New York State Education Department's State Board of Psychology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed psychologists #PSY-0059. AAPdN maintains responsibility for this program and its content.