It is sad to see kids as young as two years old being handed a mobile phone or digital devices and instantly engrossed in cartoons from YouTube while dining at a restaurant. While this may seem like a convenient tactic for keeping children quiet, it comes with its own set of pros and cons.
One advantage of giving a mobile phone to a child is the immediate distraction it provides, which can prevent fussy behavior and tantrums. It may allow parents to enjoy a peaceful meal without disruptions. Additionally, educational apps and videos can offer an interactive learning experience for children, enhancing their cognitive skills.
However, relying solely on mobile phones or digital devices such as ipad or android tab as a pacifier for children has several drawbacks. Firstly, excessive screen time at a young age can have harmful effects on a child’s developing eyesight. Prolonged exposure to screens may strain their eyes and contribute to vision problems later in life. Additionally, excessive screen time can hinder the development of essential communication and social skills. When children are constantly engrossed in their devices, they miss out on opportunities for face-to-face interaction and meaningful conversations.
Conversing with children during mealtime offers far more benefits than drawbacks. Regular, meaningful conversations with parents help in developing language skills, fostering emotional connection, and building strong parent-child bonds. Engaging in real-time communication allows parents to understand their child’s thoughts, feelings, and perspectives, promoting healthy development and emotional well-being. When your toddler eats without a screen, they get the full experience of eating. They can taste, touch, smell, hear and feel the food as they are eating it. This full sensory experience helps your child get familiar with foods. This also helps prevent picky eating from getting worse.
It is imperative for parents to lead by example and avoid excessive use of their own mobile phones during mealtimes with their children. By prioritizing quality time and conversation, parents can create a nurturing and engaging atmosphere that supports the overall growth and development of their child.
While it may be tempting to rely on mobile phones to keep children quiet at restaurants, it is crucial to consider the long-term consequences. Excessive screen time can negatively impact a child’s eyesight, hinder their speech and social skills, and limit opportunities for meaningful interaction. Instead, parents should emphasize the importance of open communication and quality time with their children during meals, setting a positive example by reducing their own phone usage.
It is important for parents to make a decision that is right for their child and their family. If you are unsure about whether or not to give your child a mobile phone at restaurants, it is always best to err on the side of caution.
