They’re calling it “virtual autism.”
It’s not an official diagnosis, but it’s a term used to describe something we’re seeing more often: very young children showing autism-like behaviors—but in some cases, those symptoms seem to improve when screen time is reduced and real-life interaction increases.
So what is this all about?
What Is “Virtual Autism”?
Virtual autism refers to autism-like symptoms seen in children—especially under age 2—who have been exposed to high levels of screen time during key developmental stages.
These kids often have limited opportunities for face-to-face communication, movement, and real-world exploration.
Common Symptoms Include:
- Limited communication (few gestures, little babbling, reduced eye contact)
- Social withdrawal
- Difficulty with emotional regulation
- Repetitive behaviors
- Sensory sensitivities
- Strong preference for screen time over social play
Sounds like autism, doesn't it? In some cases, these children meet criteria for an autism diagnosis.
In others, the behaviors shift or improve with reduced screen use and increased social, sensory, and movement-based interaction.
What’s Causing It?
The theory behind “virtual autism” is that excessive screen exposure may disrupt early brain development, especially the systems responsible for language, emotional connection, and sensory regulation.
Early childhood is a critical period. Brains grow through interaction, not passivity. When screens replace human faces, conversation, physical play, and responsive caregiving, development may slow—or take a different path.
Please note. . .
This is not about parent-blaming. Screens are everywhere, and they’re part of our modern world. But it’s worth asking: Are screens becoming a substitute for the real-life interaction our kids need most?
Here are some questions:
Question #1 Does this just apply to very young children? Or are older, school age students impacted?
Question #2 How much screen time are our students actually getting each day—when we add up what they do at school and at home?
Do we really know the total? And more importantly… how do we measure the impact?
And one more question. What about the school programs that are abandoning books to move totally to technology? Do we know the impact of that decision?
Final thoughts:
This isn’t about fear. It’s about being informed. Families need to stay curious, ask really good questions, and choose connection with their children over technology whenever we can. Teachers need to ask those qustions, too.
And here's the most important question:
What if reducing screen time could change a child’s future?
A Movie Worth Watching: A Stone Unturned
There’s a new movie called A Stone Unturned — on this topic of autism and screen time. There was a limited screening that got good feedback. Not sure when it will be available. Watch for it. It's an important topic.