With all sorts of television shows and movies marketed towards babies and toddlers, labeled as “educational,” it can come as a shock to parents when they find out television is bad for babies. Shows like the Baby Einstein series may have parents under the impression that these shows will help boost a child’s intelligence, but studies suggest the opposite.
Startling statistics
In America, the average child watches four hours of television every day. Even more surprising is that 20% of children under the age of two-years-old have televisions in their rooms. The real shocker, however, is that in babies three-months-old and younger, 40% watch television. These statistics come as a shock to many, and with some of the suspected consequences for children, they’re worth taking a better look at.
Television may be harmful for babies and tots
Recent studies indicate that watching television may have a direct impact on a child’s cognitive development and language skills as they age. In fact, babies who watch television were more likely to have delayed cognitive development even as young as 14 months of age. At 14-months-old, babies who watched an hour of television per day scored one-third lower on developmental assessments as babies who did not watch television. Some believe that the reason for the difference in scores is due to the fact that while watching television, babies are missing out on valuable time talking, playing and interacting with adults and other family members.
Moms may not agree
I spoke to a few friends who have children about their thoughts on whether or not watching television is beneficial for babies and young children. This is what they had to say.
“I think [educational television shows and movies[ are better for older toddlers, 18 months and older, but I also don’t think TV is as harmful as they say it is. I read something that said children under 2 should not watch TV. I personally think that’s ridiculous.” -Michelle Hogan, Manassas, Virginia.
“I believe that educational shows or videos can be very beneficial to a child depending on the brain development” -Tiffany Mai, Grants Pass, Oregon .
”I think that, as long as [television shows and movies] don’t replace human interaction and imaginative play, educational television shows can support learning in toddlers.” -Mysti Freed, DSM, Iowa.
“Educational shows may not necessarily benefit baby’s intelligence but it may help them become more aware of and understanding of their environment.” – Tirza Ludwig, Sauk Centre, Minnesota.
“I believe educational DVDs can have an extremely beneficial impact on children’s intelligence. My 4 year old has been watching educational shows since she was around 1. They have helped her learn sign language, colors, shapes, numbers, song s, even some beginning reading from hooked on phonics and “Baby Can Read” program! My daughter has Down Syndrome but absolutely NO cognitive/intellectual difficulties. I strongly believe educational shows have contributed to her excellence.” -Kala Mulvey, Grants Pass, Oregon.
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