IMPACT OF FOREIGN LANGUAGE ANIMATED CARTOONS ON PRESCHOOL CHILDREN: BENEFITS, CHALLENGES AND THE ROLE OF SPEECH THERAPISTS IN SERBIA AND BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

This paper examines the impact of foreign language animated cartoons on preschool children in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, highlighting both benefits and challenges. While cartoons can enhance vocabulary, pronunciation, comprehension, cultural awareness and second language acquisition, some speech therapists in these countries express concerns. They argue that early exposure to foreign languages via screens may cause confusion, language mixing, and excessive screen time. Some of this scepticism contradicts current scientific findings. Interviews with speech therapists show how expert opinions shared through popular media can shape caregivers’ practices, often leading to misconceptions. As most caregivers rely on media for information rather than scientific literature, this emphasises the need for researchers to communicate their findings effectively to the public. The study reviews literature and empirical evidence, highlighting the gap between media narratives and scientific research and offers practical recommendations for educators, therapists, caregivers, and policymakers.