Is it okay to have TV on around a newborn?

The Impact of Television on Newborns: A Closer Look
As families navigate the early days of welcoming a newborn, one common question arises: Is it okay to have the television on around a newborn? This query is not merely a matter of preference but encompasses health, developmental, and environmental considerations.
Developmental Concerns
Experts in child development emphasize that the early months of a child’s life are critical for brain development. During this period, newborns are particularly sensitive to their surroundings. Visual and auditory stimuli play a significant role in their sensory development, and the television can be a source of both positive and negative stimulation.
Positive Stimulation: In moderation, certain programs designed for infants and toddlers can provide beneficial exposure to music, sounds, and colors that may aid in cognitive and sensory development. Shows that encourage interaction, such as those that prompt babies to respond or mimic sounds, can be particularly engaging.
Negative Effects: Conversely, excessive screen time has been linked to delays in language development and difficulties in social skills. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children under 18 months avoid screen time, except for video chatting. For newborns, whose primary source of learning comes from direct interactions with caregivers, the distractions of a TV can detract from crucial bonding moments.
Environmental Considerations
The environment surrounding a newborn is equally important. Creating a calm and soothing atmosphere can significantly impact a baby’s wellbeing. The presence of a constantly playing television can lead to overstimulation, making it harder for newborns to relax and sleep.
A study published in the journal *Pediatrics* highlighted that infants exposed to high levels of background noise, including television, may experience disrupted sleep patterns and increased irritability. Therefore, while having the TV on in the background might seem harmless, it can inadvertently create an environment that is not conducive to a newborn’s needs.
Recommendations for Parents
1. Limit Screen Time: It is advisable to limit TV exposure around newborns. When the television is on, choose programs that are specifically designed for infants if you decide to engage them.
2. Engage Directly: Prioritize face-to-face interaction. Talking, singing, and reading to your baby are much more beneficial than passive screen time.
3. Create a Soothing Environment: Consider keeping the TV off during sleep times and when you want to create a calm atmosphere. Opt for soft music or white noise if background sound is necessary.
4. Be Mindful of Content: If you do choose to watch TV, ensure the content is appropriate and non-violent, avoiding anything that might be confusing or frightening.
Conclusion
In summary, while it may not be inherently harmful to have the television on around a newborn, moderation and mindfulness are key. By prioritizing direct interactions and a soothing environment, parents can support their newborn’s development and wellbeing during these formative early months. As the saying goes, “Less is more,” especially when it comes to the delicate needs of a newborn.

Is TV exposure bad for babies?

Good evidence suggests that screen viewing before age 18 months has lasting negative effects on children’s language development, reading skills, and short term memory. It also contributes to problems with sleep and attention.

Can TV overstimulate a newborn?

Babies and toddlers exposed to television or video viewing may be more likely to exhibit atypical sensory behaviors, such as being disengaged and disinterested in activities, seeking more intense stimulation in an environment, or being overwhelmed by sensations like loud sounds or bright lights, according to data from …

How far should a baby be from the TV?

Blue light can penetrate deep into the retina of the eye and can damage the light-sensitive cells. The ideal distance of watching TV is considered to be 8 to 10 feet. The general rule of thumb is to be at least 5 times the distance from the screen as the screen is wide.

How loud can TV be around a newborn?

As a rule of thumb, babies should not be exposed to noise levels over 60 decibels. The noise level recommended for hospital nurseries is actually lower, at 50 dB. For reference, a quiet conversation is between 50 and 55 dB and an alarm clock is 80 dB.

What is too loud for a newborn?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)(9) recommends that in hospital nurseries, sound machines are kept at 50 dB or lower. The CDC recommends(10) that a safe decibel level for infants means keeping the volume under 60 dB.

Is it okay to watch TV with a newborn in the room?

It’s perfectly fine. My 11 month old has slept in the same room as a tv on and off his whole life, every day nap on my chest as I watched tv. We have white noise overnight as that noise is soothing and replicates womb sounds but it doesn’t need to drown out the tv, just be close enough for baby to hear.

Does TV negatively affect babies?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises eliminating screen time for children younger than 2 years completely, linking it to language learning delays.

Can TV slow baby development?

A recent study found that children exposed to more screen time at the age of one, showed developmental delays in communication and problem solving by ages two and four.

How can I protect my baby from TV?

Top Safety Tips to Avoid TV and Furniture Tip-Overs

1. Mount flat-screen TVs to the wall.
2. If you have a heavier, box-style cathode ray tube (CRT) TV, place it on a low, stable piece of furniture that can hold the TV’s size and weight.
3. Use anti-tip brackets, braces or wall straps to secure furniture to the wall.

Can I have TV on in the background with my newborn?

TV is harmful for under-twos, even in the background Babies and toddlers under the age of two should not watch television, one expert says. Even watching programmes designed for children, or having the television on in the background, can have an adverse impact on babies’ ability to learn language and pay attention.