Why Too Much Screen Time Can Slow Toddler Development

Screens are everywhere these days — from TVs and tablets to interactive toys and even high-tech play equipment. But research consistently shows that too much screen time at an early age can have a negative impact on toddler development.

A 2019 Canadian study following nearly 2,500 children found that toddlers who spent more time in front of screens at ages two and three scored lower on developmental screening tests at ages three and five. These tests measured skills like language, communication, motor development, and social-emotional growth. In other words: the more time young children spent on screens, the slower their overall development progressed (Madigan et al., JAMA Pediatrics, 2019).

Other studies highlight similar concerns:

• The Canadian Paediatric Society warns that excess screen exposure can reduce vocabulary growth, weaken problem-solving abilities, and limit much-needed caregiver-child interaction.

• UNICEF notes that constant screen use may also reduce attention span and even empathy, as it replaces real-world, interactive play that children need to thrive.

Why Minitown is Screen-Free

At Minitown Café & Play, we took this research seriously. That’s why you won’t find screens, tablets, or flashy electronic toys in our play area. Instead, we’ve designed a space that encourages active, imaginative, and social play — the kind of play proven to support healthy growth.

We’ve carefully chosen Montessori-inspired toys and simple, educational play structures that:

• Encourage open-ended play, where kids create their own stories and adventures

• Promote fine and gross motor skills through climbing, building, and hands-on exploration

• Inspire creativity and problem-solving

• Support social interaction, as children learn to share, cooperate, and role-play

By limiting technology and focusing on purposeful play, we give toddlers the chance to develop at their natural pace — building stronger foundations for school readiness, creativity, and emotional well-being.

The Bottom Line

Screens may have their place, but research is clear: toddlers thrive best when given time to play, move, and imagine without them. That’s the vision behind Minitown’s playground — a safe, screen-free space where your child’s growth takes center stage.

With love,

MiniTown Team