# Digital screen time and speech-language delay in children: A cross-sectional study

## TL;DR

This study finds that high screen time in young children is linked to speech delays, highlighting the need for parental supervision and regulated use.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific factors like excessive screen time and poor content quality as contributors to speech-language delay in children.

## Key findings

- 60% of children aged 6 months to 5 years showed speech delay, with the highest rate in toddlers.
- Excessive screen time and lack of parental supervision were significantly associated with speech delay.
- Poor-quality content was linked to speech delay across all age groups.

## Abstract

Digital device use in early childhood has raised concerns regarding its impact on speech and language development. Hence, this cross-
sectional study of 2000 children aged 6 months to 5 years examined the association between screen time and isolated speech delay. Overall,
60% showed speech delay, with the highest prevalence in toddlers (70%). Excessive screen time, poor-quality content and lack of parental
supervision were significantly associated with speech delay across all age groups (p < 0.05). Thus, we show the need for regulated screen
exposure, parental involvement and early intervention to support healthy language development.