A new study has found that spending time watching TV with parents can actually enhance the brain development of young children. A British research team from the University of Portsmouth, on the southern coast of England, conducted a meta-analysis of previous studies and discovered that while a young child can be harmed by spending too much time alone in front of screens, the presence of a parent is beneficial. This is because the close parent can answer questions that may arise and engage in conversation. This transforms the typically passive and unmonitored experience of watching TV into an opportunity that engages children's thinking skills and enhances their communication abilities.
Researchers warn that screen time should not replace other social and educational activities, and that excessive screen time still poses risks. However, there are ways to turn it into a more beneficial activity. Many believe that watching TV can slow children's brain development as it prevents them from engaging in activities that keep their minds active. Children who watch more TV often have poorer diets and face increased weight problems due to the sedentary nature of the activity. Additionally, staying indoors and watching TV for a significant part of the day detracts from children interacting with each other, which also harms social development.
The researchers wanted to determine whether the quality of the time spent in front of a screen was important for its effects on the brain. Other studies examined by the research team have shown that media programming can have a positive impact on children. Having a parent or caregiver in the room was also significantly beneficial if the adult took a more active role and used the time as an opportunity to teach the child rather than merely allowing it to be a passive activity. Watching TV with your child and explaining and commenting on what is being shown can enhance their understanding of the content and support their learning during educational programs.
