Date of Award
3-2025
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing (ND)
Department
Nursing
Chair
Sondra Skory DNP, APRN, CPNP-PC
Abstract
Excessive screentime has been linked to language development delays in children aged 18 to 36 months correlating with reduced parent-child verbal interactions, and ultimately a crucial factor in early language acquisition. This quality improvement project, Less Screen, More Talk: Educating Parents to Support Language Development in Toddlers, aimed to reduce screen exposure and promote verbal engagement between caregivers and young children. Implemented over six weeks in a private pediatric clinic, the intervention included parental education, structured follow-ups, and practical resources designed to encourage language-rich interactions.
Results were striking as parents reported a significant decrease in daily screen time and observed noticeable improvements in their toddlers' communication skills. One caregiver shared, "I never realized how much of a difference simply talking more would make. Now, my child is using new words every day!" These findings underscore the effectiveness of structured parental education in addressing screen-related language delays and cultivating meaningful communication in early childhood.
Recommended Citation
Mata, Lorraine M., "Less Screen, More Talk: Educating Parents in Supporting Language Development in Toddlers" (2025). Cohort XIII. 8.
https://scholarworks.utep.edu/cohort_13/8