Study focuses on the effect of screen time on young children [Video]

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – A new study says that extended screen time for children can do long-term damage.

A Drexel University study found that babies and toddlers who are allowed to watch television or videos may be less interested in other activities later in life.

A pediatrician with Novant Health in Brunswick County says, in her experience, too much screen time too early can be detrimental, and that other forms of stimulation are crucial for young kids.

“This is a very critical time for brain development so they need everything,” Dr. Lori Tackman said. “They need personal interaction. They need hands-on. They need to work with puzzles, and it’s very important for their sensory, cognitive and language development.”

Dr. Tackman’s advice is children between 2 and 5 years old can have about an hour of screen time.

She also says that always using screens to calm kids down means they …