Screen Time and Developmental Outcomes in Toddlers: A Longitudinal Cohort Study

doi:N/A

eISSN: None / ISSN: 1673-5269

Chinese Journal of Cancer Prevention & Treatment

2026, Volume: 33, Issue 5 : 15-16

Research Article

Screen Time and Developmental Outcomes in Toddlers: A Longitudinal Cohort Study

Prabhu S

Deshpande A

Kulkarni M

Received

April 14, 2026

Accepted

May 4, 2026

Published

May 25, 2026

Abstract

Background: Associations between early screen time and developmental outcomes require longitudinal evidence. Methods: Prospective cohort of 1,240 children followed from age 12 to 36 months. Screen time quantified at 12, 18, 24, and 36 months. Developmental outcomes assessed by ASQ-3 and MCHAT. Results: Each additional 30 minutes/day of screen time at 18 months associated with delayed language development (β=-0.42, p<0.001). Social-emotional development adversely affected with >2 hours/day. Interactive screen media showed attenuated adverse effects. Conclusion: Early screen time exposure, particularly passive viewing, adversely affects language and social development in toddlers, supporting restrictive guidelines

Keywords

Screen time

Toddler

Developmental outcomes

Language delay

Autism screening

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