Childhood behavioural problems linked to reliance on devices to calm toddler tantrums
Children handed a device when they need calming can later struggle to master their emotions, a study in JAMA Pediatrics shows
It’s an all-too-familiar scenario for many parents: Your preschooler starts to act up just as the phone rings or you start dinner.
Maybe you hand over an iPad or smartphone to soothe the child so you can get down to business.
And this probably does the trick.
But if this is your go-to strategy, your child may be at risk for developing longer-term behavioural issues — especially boys and kids already hardwired to be hyperactive or impulsive.
