Mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, have become a ubiquitous part of modern life. Many parents rely on these devices to keep their young children entertained and calm, especially during times of stress or upset. However, recent research suggests that using mobile devices to soothe young children may actually hinder their emotional regulation and development.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under 18 months of age should not be exposed to screen media, and that children between the ages of 18 months and two years should have limited exposure. However, many young children are exposed to screens for much longer periods of time, and parents often use mobile devices to distract or soothe their children when they are upset.
One study published in the journal Pediatrics found that young children who spent more time on mobile devices had greater difficulty regulating their emotions. The study followed 47 toddlers between the ages of 12 and 36 months, and found that those who spent more time on mobile devices had more tantrums, lower attention spans, and greater difficulty with emotional regulation.
The reason for this may be that mobile devices provide a passive form of entertainment that does not require children to actively engage with their environment. When children are upset, they need to learn how to regulate their emotions and cope with stress in healthy ways. Using a mobile device to distract them from their emotions may prevent them from developing these important skills.
Additionally, mobile devices may actually increase stress levels in young children. One study found that exposure to screen media increased the level of the stress hormone cortisol in young children. High levels of cortisol can lead to a variety of negative health outcomes, including increased anxiety, depression, and weight gain.
So what can parents do instead of using mobile devices to calm their children? Here are some tips:
- Teach your child healthy coping skills. Help your child learn how to calm themselves down when they are upset. This could include deep breathing, counting to 10, or taking a walk.
- Engage with your child. Spend time playing with your child and engaging with them in a meaningful way. This will help them learn how to interact with the world around them in a positive way.
- Encourage outdoor play. Spending time in nature can be a great way for children to regulate their emotions and relieve stress.
- Set limits on screen time. Limit your child’s exposure to screens, and encourage them to engage in other activities that will help them develop emotional regulation skills.
In conclusion, while mobile devices may be a convenient tool for parents, they may actually hinder young children’s emotional regulation and development. Parents should focus on teaching their children healthy coping skills and engaging with them in meaningful ways, rather than relying on screens to soothe their emotions. By doing so, parents can help their children develop the emotional regulation skills they need to thrive.