Why "Face Time" Matters More Than Screen Time in the Early Years

Every conversation counts

Technology is now part of everyday family life, but growing evidence suggests that face-to-face interactions play a vital role in children's early language and social development.

A recent Australian study from The Kids Research Institute Australia found that greater screen exposure in toddlers was associated with fewer adult words heard, fewer child vocalisations, and fewer back-and-forth conversations with caregivers. Importantly, the study included screens used by both children and adults, highlighting that background screen use may also reduce opportunities for everyday interaction.

Why does this matter?

Young children learn language through responsive conversations with the important adults in their lives. Reading together, singing, playing, and talking during everyday routines all support communication, learning, attention, and social-emotional development.

The findings do not suggest that screens should be avoided altogether. Rather, they reinforce the importance of ensuring that screen use does not replace the meaningful interactions that help children learn and develop.

Finding a healthy balance

Professor Donna Cross encourages families to focus on balancing screen time, face time, and free play.

Simple ways to support this balance include:

• Reading together each day.

• Talking during everyday routines.

• Encouraging imaginative and outdoor play.

• Creating opportunities for children to interact with others.

• Establishing clear and consistent technology boundaries.

• Modelling healthy technology habits as adults.

Even short, everyday conversations provide valuable opportunities to support children's development.

Key takeaway

Children learn best through responsive relationships. Prioritising regular opportunities for conversation, shared play, and everyday interaction helps support language development, learning, and emotional wellbeing while maintaining a healthy balance with technology.

Research Spotlight

This article summarises current research to help families better understand child development. Every child develops at their own pace, and no single study applies equally to every child. If you have concerns about your child's development, learning, behaviour, or emotional wellbeing, seeking advice from an appropriately qualified health professional may be beneficial.

Research source: Brushe M, et al. (2025). Research conducted by The Kids Research Institute Australia and The University of Adelaide examining the relationship between screen exposure and toddlers' language environments.