Children read worse with frequent use of social media - study

Children who actively use social media start to have poorer word recognition and pronunciation over time.

Details

Researchers have found that frequent use of social media is linked to slower reading and vocabulary development. One of the key reasons is the "crowding out effect": time spent on social networks replaces reading and other developmental activities.

In addition, these children are more likely to have difficulty concentrating. Constant notifications and switching between tasks can interfere with attention retention.

At the same time, the effect is not entirely negative. Children who actively use social networks process information faster and respond faster to tasks. However, these benefits are mostly found in digital environments.

The authors emphasise that this is about connection, not direct causation. It's also possible that children with inherently weaker concentration are more likely to reach for social media.

Why it matters

Declining reading and vocabulary skills can directly affect learning and school performance.

Researchers recommend:

• limit time on social media
• don't give children smartphones too early
• avoid using gadgets before bedtime
• encourage reading and screen-free activities

In some cases, a simple phone without access to social media may be an alternative.

Background

Social media is becoming an increasingly important part of children's lives, and different countries are already discussing age restrictions. For example, Australia has introduced a ban on social media for children under the age of 16.

Source

The study is based on data from more than 10,000 children who were followed for six years, starting at around the age of 10. Published in the Journal of Research on Adolescence (2025)