By Brisela, Speech Therapist, Trichy

In today’s digital world, children spend more time watching phones, tablets, and TV. While screens can be entertaining, too much screen time may affect a child’s speech development. Children learn to speak through listening, watching facial expressions, and interacting with people. Real conversations help children learn new words and sentences.

When Children Spend Too Much Time on Screens

  • They talk less
  • They have fewer interactions
  • Their attention and listening skills may reduce
  • Speech and language development may be delayed

Warning signs include:

  • Not responding to name
  • Poor eye contact
  • Not speaking by age 2
  • Preferring screens over people

What Parents Can Do

  • Talk and interact with the child often
  • Read books and sing rhymes
  • Play together and encourage conversation
  • If using screens, watch together and discuss what they see

Recommended Screen Limits

  • Below 2 years: No screen time
  • 2–5 years: Maximum 1 hour per day

Remember: Children learn language from people, not screens. Your time, words, and interaction are the most important factors for your child’s speech development.