Screen time that teaches: study tests if TV shows can boost Kids' ABCs

NCT ID NCT06796790

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at whether guiding caregivers to use educational media or storybooks with their children can improve early reading skills. About 450 children aged 3.5 to 4.75 years will take part. Caregivers will be trained to use either a Super Why! media program or storybooks at home for 12 weeks. Researchers will measure skills like letter knowledge and rhyming to see which approach works best.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Media instruction and storybook intervention
What this could lead to
If successful, this could provide simple, home-based ways to improve early literacy skills in young children, especially those from low-income families.
What could go wrong
This is an early-stage behavioral study with no direct medical outcome. Results may not apply to all children or settings, and adherence to the home program may vary.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Literacy

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • The Ohio State University Crane Center for Early Childhood

    RECRUITING

    Columbus, Ohio, 43201, United States