Toddler's dinner behavior causing family dispute, centered around grandmother's dissatisfaction with mother's accommodation
In the digital age, managing screen time for children, especially during family meals and public outings, can be a challenging task for parents. Deirdre Bardolf, a lifestyle writer with our website Digital, explores this issue and offers some key strategies to help parents establish healthy screen habits for their kids.
According to Michael G. Wetter, a pediatric psychologist from Los Angeles, screen time should not become the default for children. Wetter warns that if screens are used routinely to pacify or distract, toddlers may come to rely on external stimulation instead of building internal coping mechanisms. This can contribute to difficulties with attention, frustration tolerance, and emotional regulation as they grow older.
One of the key strategies Wetter suggests is setting screen-free zones, such as the dinner table. By making at least one family meal per day completely gadget-free, parents can help their children develop communication skills and reduce distractions. Wetter also encourages parents to model appropriate screen etiquette themselves and to replace screen time with alternative activities like reading, outdoor play, hobbies, or social interactions.
Another important aspect is treating screen time like a special treat, similar to dessert or cake, rather than an unlimited resource. This can help children learn moderation and resist overuse. Consistent monitoring of content and time spent on screens is also crucial, as many parents already do, to prevent addiction and negative side effects like reduced sleep quality and weakened social skills.
Communicating the reasons for these rules to children is also essential, as it helps them understand the benefits and lessens resistance over time. Wetter, however, cautions against shaming parents, especially publicly or in moments of stress, as this can cause anxiety, depression, and burnout.
A recent Reddit post sparked controversy when a woman shared her experience of giving her young daughter an iPad to watch cartoons during a family dinner to prevent a meltdown. The post garnered nearly 2,000 comments, with many slamming the mom for resorting to the device. Some users suggested taking the child for a walk and having books or toys on hand instead.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends zero screen time (except for video chatting) for children under 2 years old and no more than an hour a day of high-quality, educational programming for kids 2 to 5 years old. The organization stresses the importance of real-world experiences and interactions for young children's development.
In conclusion, building family routines and environments where screens are not central during meals or public outings can help children focus on real-world experiences and relationships, thus lowering the risk of addictive behaviors with screens. Wetter's advice emphasizes connection over correction when dealing with children, promoting healthy communication and fostering a positive family environment.
- Establishing health-and-wellness routines for children, such as setting screen-free zones like the dinner table, can help foster better communication skills and reduce distractions, contributing to improved attention, frustration tolerance, and emotional regulation.
- In terms of parenting strategies, modeling appropriate screen etiquette, replacing screen time with alternative activities, and treating screen time like a special treat can help teach children moderation and prevent addictive behaviors.
- Building family dynamics that prioritize real-world experiences and relationships over screens can lower the risk of screen addictive behaviors, ultimately promoting healthy relationships and a positive lifestyle.
