The Quality of Screen Time: A Guide for Parents
However, passive consumption—such as endless hours of unmonitored videos or repetitive games with little educational value—offers fewer benefits and can even pose risks. Studies suggest that excessive passive screen use is linked to behavioral concerns, attention issues, and delays in social and language skills in younger kids. In teens, unmonitored social media use has been associated with increased anxiety, depression, and negative body image.
5 YouTube Channels That Encourage Language and Play: Why Co-Viewing Matters
Co-viewing turns passive screen time into an interactive learning experience. Here’s why it’s essential:
Reinforces Language: When you watch together, you can repeat key phrases, ask questions, and build on what your child hears.
Encourages Engagement: By pausing to talk or act out parts of the video, you keep your child actively involved rather than zoning out.
Transitions to Real-Life Play: Watching together allows you to guide your child from screen-based activities to hands-on play inspired by the content.
For example, after co-viewing a video about a pretend bakery, you might help your child set up their own “bakery” using play dough and toy utensils.