Istanbul: A growing global shift in children's reading habits is raising concern among educators, authors, and media experts, who warn that shrinking attention spans and fast-paced digital content are reshaping how young audiences engage with stories and learning.

According to Anadolu Agency - English, the issue was at the center of discussions on the sidelines of the TRT International Children's Media Summit 2025, held in Istanbul on Saturday, where global experts have spoken about the pressures digital platforms place on deep reading skills-and the responsibility shared by families, educators, and the media industry.

Warren Buckleitner, a psychologist and technology expert, told Anadolu that today's children are growing up in an unprecedented media environment, marked by unlimited choice and constant stimulation. Buckleitner compared the digital world to "a theme park ... in your backyard," where content is always available and rarely curated. He emphasized the importance of adult involvement in curating content to ensure it is developmentally appropriate for children.

Despite these challenges, Buckleitner argued that technology, particularly artificial intelligence, could become part of the solution if used responsibly. He suggested that AI could effectively adapt curriculum to individual children, making learning more engaging without sacrificing depth. However, he warned that economic incentives often work against children's best interests, noting that digital content is frequently driven by views rather than developmental value.

Similar concerns were echoed by Michael Milo, founder of Muslim Kids, who highlighted that algorithm-driven, short-form storytelling can undermine children's ability to focus unless families intervene early. Milo stressed the importance of traditional reading, outdoor play, and family involvement in children's development. He noted that balanced exposure helps preserve attention and imagination.

Both experts also addressed rising global debates over regulation, including new digital rules in countries such as Australia and Trkiye. Milo mentioned that strict regulations may be necessary where industry self-regulation has failed, citing the profit-driven nature of big media companies and the need for informed online decisions.

Source: Anadolu Agency - English