Screen time: The effects on children’s emotional, social, and cognitive development

In today’s digital world, children are growing up with screens and digital devices pervading almost every aspect of their lives. This is a new phenomenon not even seen in the previous generation. Given that the early years are especially important for the optimal brain development, how does exposure to screen time affect children’s socioemotional and cognitive development? Are adolescents similarly affected?

Koi Tū’s latest evidence brief examines these issues and more by synthesising the latest research on recreational screen time and children’s development. It also provides a set of recommendations for screen use that acknowledge the realities of contemporary New Zealand family life.