Gadgets and Speech Delay in Early Childhood: A Literature Review

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to find evidence and explain the influence of gadget use on speech delays in children. This study uses a literature review approach using selected sources based on specific research criteria or themes, namely journals published in the last 10 years Source sorting was done by grouping according to keywords, where from the source sorting, 29 articles were found to be used as review sources, and 15 articles were found as primary sources that matched the keywords and 10 supporting articles as reference reinforcements, then 4 additional articles as comparisons.  The results of the analysis indicate a link between excessive gadget use and speech delays in children. Parenting plays a significant role in shaping children's characteristics and development related to the use of electronic media or gadgets. In early childhood (ages 1-5 years), known as the golden age, during this period children experience rapid development in physical, motor, intellectual, emotional, language, and social aspects as they respond to their surroundings. During this period, children are highly responsive to given stimuli. Language development is a key indicator of a child's overall developmental progress, serving as a benchmark for cognitive abilities. Adequate physical activity can also improve motor skills and cognitive development. Therefore, active parental involvement in monitoring gadget use can reduce the risk of speech delays in children. In conclusion, speech delays can be prevented, among other things, by limiting children's gadget use and providing more play activities that stimulate and enhance gross motor development..