The increasing integration of smart devices in the daily lives of young children raises concerns among experts regarding their development. Recent studies indicate that excessive screen time can affect speech development and reduce opportunities for real-life communication practice. Speech therapist Keiu Barndõk notes that parents often consult speech therapists when their child's speech development appears slower compared to peers, but they may not immediately link this issue to the time spent on smart devices. Upon examination of the child's environment, it often becomes evident that both the child and parents spend significant time using these devices.

Tiia Pertel, a leader in children's and youth affairs at the Health Development Institute, emphasizes the correlation between parents' screen time and their children's habits. A study conducted by Estonian researchers focusing on families with children aged 2.5 to 4 years revealed that higher smartphone use among parents leads to increased screen time for children. This suggests a cyclical pattern where adults' technology use inadvertently influences their children's behaviors, potentially hindering their development.

As these findings emerge, experts advocate for reducing screen time for young children to foster better communication skills and ensure healthy development. They recommend that parents become more aware of their own device usage to create a more conducive environment for their children's growth. The implications of these studies stress the importance of balancing technology use with interactive, real-world experiences that are essential during early childhood.