Episode Details

How do digital screens and technology alter the pace at which children progress through these cognitive stages? Piaget’s theory says that using a flat screen or iPads might limit a child's learning because they aren't feeling the 3D weight or shape of real objects, which takes them away from the real world and limits their sensory and touch learning from objects around them. Also, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, “Pediatric guidelines recommend avoiding digital media (other than video chatting) for children under 18 months to prioritize hands-on learning and interaction” (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2016). This episode was researched and Produced by Allison B for her HHG4M Human Development (Psychology) course, Semester 1, 2026/27. Citations / Research Info: Piaget, J. (1964). Development and learning. Journal of Research in Science Teaching, 2(3), 176–186. https://doi.org/10.1002/tea.3660020306 McLeod, S. (2026, September 25). Piaget's theory and stages of cognitive development. Simply Psychology. https://www.simplypsychology.org/piaget.html American Academy of Pediatrics. (2016, October 21). New recommendations for children's electronic media use. ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/10/161021121843.htm Moser, A., Zimmermann, L., Dickerson, K., Grenell, A., Barr, R., & Gerhardstein, P. (2015). They can interact, but can they learn? Toddlers' transfer learning from touchscreens and television. Journal of Experimental Child Psychology, 137, 137–155. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jecp.2015.04.002 Piaget, J. (1952). The Origins of Intelligence in Children. New York, NY: W.W. Norton & Co. https://doi.org/10.1037/11494-000 KLA Schools. 10 cause and effect activities for infants: Fun with everyday objects. https://www.klaschools.com/insights/cause-and-effect-activities-for-infants