#asktheexpert

my baby got affected to screen time during 7th to 14th month now from last 20 days having 0% screen time.

1. Eye contact less
2. Respond to naming
3. Social skills

is there any cause of concerns or red flag ?

Question

#asktheexpert

my baby got affected to screen time during 7th to 14th month now from last 20 days having 0% screen time.

1. Eye contact less
2. Respond to naming 
3. Social skills

is there any cause of concerns or red flag ?

Accepted Answer

It's great that you’ve reduced your baby’s screen time to 0%, as early screen exposure can affect development, particularly in terms of social skills, attention span, and communication. However, it’s also important to consider whether your baby is meeting key developmental milestones now that screen time has been removed.

Here are a few things to look for in terms of social development and potential red flags:

1. Eye Contact

Normal Development: At your baby’s age, they should typically maintain eye contact with you and others when interacting, such as during play or feeding. Occasional lapses are fine, but consistent lack of eye contact could be concerning.

Red Flag: If your baby avoids eye contact most of the time or seems uninterested in looking at faces, it might be worth discussing with a pediatrician.

2. Responding to Names

Normal Development: By 12 months, most babies respond to their name when called, turning their head or making eye contact. If your baby responds to their name and other familiar sounds, this is a good sign.

Red Flag: If your baby does not respond to their name consistently after multiple attempts, it could be a sign of delayed communication development.

3. Social Interaction

Normal Development: Babies around this age should engage in simple social exchanges, such as smiling back at you, showing interest in other people, and beginning to mimic facial expressions or gestures.

Red Flag: If your baby shows little interest in engaging with others, doesn’t smile in response to social interaction, or seems withdrawn, it could be a sign to watch for.

4. Play and Attention

Normal Development: Babies should be curious about their surroundings, engage in simple games like peek-a-boo, and enjoy interacting with toys. These activities should hold their attention for short periods.

Red Flag: If your baby shows no interest in toys, doesn’t engage in social play, or has difficulty focusing on activities, it may indicate developmental delays.

5. Language and Communication

Normal Development: By 12 months, babies often start to babble and use simple sounds like “mama” or “dada.” By 14 months, they may understand simple instructions, wave bye-bye, and begin to show gestures like pointing.

Red Flag: If your baby doesn’t babble, point, or attempt to communicate through gestures or words by this age, it may signal a delay in communication skills.

Next Steps and Encouragement

No Immediate Concern: If your baby is maintaining eye contact, responding to their name, and engaging socially, it’s a positive sign, and reducing screen time was likely a beneficial move.

Observation: Continue observing your baby’s interactions over the next few months. Encourage face-to-face play, read books together, and engage in interactive activities.

Consult a Pediatrician: If you’re concerned about specific behaviors, such as lack of eye contact, no response to their name, or difficulty with social engagement, it may be helpful to speak with a pediatrician for an evaluation. Early intervention is key if there are any developmental concerns.

Most babies benefit greatly from reduced screen time, and with the right environment, they often make up for any delays. Keep an eye on milestones, but don't hesitate to reach out to a professional if anything feels off.

#asktheexpert my baby got affected to screen time during 7th to 14th month now from last 20 days having 0% screen time. 1. Eye contact less 2. Respond to naming 3. Social skills is there any cause of concerns or red flag ?