It’s Time to Rethink Your Toddler’s Tablet Time
It always starts with good intentions. Your toddler is fussy or irritable, and you’ve seen how the tablet calms them down. Why not hand it over for a few minutes to prevent a tantrum while you get dinner ready?
The study, which appeared in JAMA Pediatrics, found that more tablet use at age three-and-a-half was associated with increased anger a year later. A child’s inclination to become angry or frustrated at four-and-a-half was then linked to more tablet time at five-and-a-half.
The Risks of Relying on Tablets
The ability to regulate emotions doesn’t happen automatically. Instead, young children commonly develop this skill through supportive interactions with their parents or caregivers, and through play. But when they have a tablet in their hands, those opportunities typically disappear.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Transitioning Away from Tablet Time
- Practice Self-Compassion
As a parent, it’s easy to rely on tablets when your child is frustrated, angry, or sad. But it’s important to recognize the risks of relying on a tablet and commit to changing that habit.
- Set Expectations
Designate specific times for tablet use, such as after dinnertime. Stick to the recommended one hour or less of tablet time per day, and avoid exceeding this threshold.
- Coach Your Child through Difficult Feelings
Focus on emotion regulation strategies with your child, such as naming feelings and practicing deep breaths. Model similar behavior yourself, and invite your child to join you.
- Weather the Storm
Stay firm with your boundaries, even amid tantrums. Remind your child of the times when tablet use is appropriate, and explain that it’s now time to calm down. Affirm your child when they do calm down.
- Be Mindful of Your Own Device Use
Reflect on your own habits and model behavior for your child. Avoid picking up a smartphone during stressful moments, and restrict device use at meal times.
- Encourage Play
Shifting away from tablet use can give children more time to spend on imaginative or pretend play, which helps them develop key social, emotional, and cognitive skills. Set aside time every day to play with your child, even if it’s for five minutes.
Conclusion
It’s time to rethink your toddler’s tablet time. By following these steps, you can transition away from relying on devices and help your child develop healthier emotional regulation strategies. Remember to be patient and consistent, and to model good behavior yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the risks of relying on tablets for my toddler’s emotional regulation?
A: Relying on tablets can lead to increased anger and frustration in children, and may even contribute to the development of mental health conditions.
Q: How can I transition away from tablet time?
A: Follow the steps outlined above, including practicing self-compassion, setting expectations, coaching your child through difficult feelings, weathering the storm, being mindful of your own device use, and encouraging play.
Q: How can I ensure my child’s emotional well-being without relying on tablets?
A: Focus on building a strong, supportive relationship with your child, and provide opportunities for imaginative and pretend play. Encourage your child to express their feelings and model good emotional regulation strategies yourself.
