Mobile Screen Time and Bilingual Children’s Dual Language Learning

This study investigates how the quantity and quality of digital media use influence the language outcomes of bilingual children in Singapore. The sample includes 140 children aged 4 years 4 months to 7 years 3 months. Mobile screen use was measured with the QQ-MediaSEED, while standardized assessments such as the BLAB captured language proficiency. Preliminary analyses reveal several key patterns. Children spend more screen time in English than in their Mother Tongue, but the quality of screen use significantly predicts proficiency in both languages. Parental mediation also plays an important role: children who co-use screens with parents show stronger English receptive vocabulary, while those whose parents provide supervision during screen time perform better in Mother Tongue receptive vocabulary. These findings highlight the complex role of digital media in bilingual development and the importance of educational content and parental involvement.