Exploring Language and Socio Emotional Development in Relation to Early Screen Exposure: A Qualitative Single Case Study in a Child Development Center (CDC)

Abstract

The increasing number of Child Development Centers (CDCs) in Kerala, India, reflects growing concern regarding early childhood developmental, behavioural, and socio-emotional challenges, particularly in the post-COVID-19 context. This study adopts a qualitative exploratory single-case research design to examine emerging developmental patterns within a Child Development Center in Kerala, India. Data were generated through non-participant observations during an internship period and semi-structured interviews with therapists, and were interpreted alongside a critical synthesis of recent literature. Findings indicate that many children attending the center present with difficulties in language development, self-regulation, social interaction, and emotional stability. While such profiles are often understood within clinical or neurodevelopmental frameworks, practitioner insights suggest that a subset of these concerns may also be influenced by environmental and experiential factors, particularly early exposure to highly stimulating digital media and reduced opportunities for reciprocal social interaction. The study contributes to existing literature by offering an in-depth, practice-based qualitative perspective on how developmental concerns are being experienced and interpreted within CDC settings, highlighting the potential role of contemporary digital environments in shaping early developmental trajectories. Although the findings are based on an exploratory single-case study and are not intended for statistical generalisation, they provide analytically grounded insights that may be relevant to similar early childhood intervention contexts globally. The study underscores the need for developmentally appropriate, interaction-rich environments and critically re-examines the evolving role of CDCs in addressing contemporary developmental needs.