So many electronic toys promise language learning at the push of a button — but for developing language skills, children need real-life interaction, repetition and meaningful connections.
An interesting study published in JAMA Pediatrics by Professor A. Sosa from Northern Arizona University challenges the effectiveness of electronic toys that claim to promote language development. The research found that these toys may hinder language learning in young children.
In the study, families were given either books, traditional toys such as stacking blocks and shape sorters, or electronic toys, including a talking farm and a baby laptop, to use at home with their infants.
These electronic toys are often marketed as tools to boost language skills, but the findings tell a different story. Sosa observed that when electronic toys did the 'talking', parents tended to step back from the interaction. As a result, children received less direct, meaningful language input. This is important information because, to develop language skills, understand words, speak, and later read or write, children need to hear language consistently and interactively, especially in one-on-one settings with caregivers. This kind of personal interaction is far more powerful than listening to pre-recorded words or phrases from a toy. The study included children between 10 and 16 months old emphasised how essential it is for parents to actively engage with their children during play. Professor Sosa explained that when a toy 'starts talking' it often takes over and disrupts the opportunities for real interactions and puts parents and children in a 'passive position'. Learning is a social activity that requires interaction, the toys can't do the job alone.
In summary, children are receiving a lower quality and quantity of language during play, they produce less language and therefore practice less language and communication skills. Parents also don't have the opportunity to use techniques such as building upon what their child is saying.
Children learn best through real interactions, conversation and shared moments. So while electronic toys might seem fun, they should never replace genuine, responsive playtime between parent and child.
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