Abstract
The rapid growth of television programs and DVDs marketed to infants and toddlers has changed the context of early learning experiences. Many of these products make educational claims that attract families with the intent of using the content to increase their child’s language development. Social development theory explains the importance of a child’s interactions with other adults and children in order to gain knowledge about their world. Current research on young children’s language development and media usage provides a variety of research-based conclusions that are contingent upon the child’s age and the content of the program. Early education professionals are in a position to inform families about current research findings on the dangers of passive screen media usage before the age of 2 as well as the potential benefits of later viewing. Recommendations for infant-centered early language experiences and media usage are provided to assist families in making age-appropriate choices for their young child’s early language experiences.
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Calderon, M. (2015). The Impact of Popular Media on Infant/Toddler Language Development: Research-based Recommendations for Working with Families. In: Heider, K., Renck Jalongo, M. (eds) Young Children and Families in the Information Age. Educating the Young Child, vol 10. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-9184-7_13
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