Digital screen time and speech-language delay in children: A cross-sectional study

Digital device use in early childhood has raised concerns regarding its impact on speech and language development. Hence, this cross- sectional study of 2000 children aged 6 months to 5 years examined the association between screen time and isolated speech delay. Overall, 60% showed speech delay, with the highest prevalence in toddlers (70%). Excessive screen time, poor-quality content and lack of parental supervision were significantly associated with speech delay across all age groups (p < 0.05). Thus, we show the need for regulated screen exposure, parental involvement and early intervention to support healthy language development.