Cross-sectional study investigates digital, traditional, and AI-integrated literacy impacts on children’s skills, suggesting a need for equitable access to resources.
Research Fingdings: Building upon the foundational Home Literacy Environment (HLE) model, this study presents a contemporary framework that incorporates digital literacy practices and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, such as ChatGPT, alongside traditional literacy activities. 74 U.S. families with children aged 5–7 participated in the study. Using hierarchical linear regressions, findings indicate a non-significant relationship between children’s literacy skills and both digital literacy practices and the use of AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT) by parents and children. The study highlights children’s active engagement in digital and AI-integrated literacy activities while reaffirming the essential role of parental involvement and print-based reading resources in fostering children’s language development. Practice or Policy: The findings reveal the growing presence of digital and AI tools in early literacy practices, contributing to an evolving understanding of the HLE and emphasizing the effective and responsive integration of technology in early literacy environments. The study also advocates for equitable access to both digital and traditional literacy resources and calls for ongoing research into the long-term effects of digital and AI technologies on children’s literacy development.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Quan et al. (2025) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: