Ben Squires
Family & Pets

It’s bad to distract kids with iPads and phones

It’s all too easy these days to distract kids with smartphones or iPads, especially when they’re in the midst of a tantrum, but you may want to stop in light of this new research.

According to a 2016 study published in the journal Pediatrics, children who are regularly given electronic devices to distract or calm them could have developmental issues later in life. Furthermore, when playing with devices replace hands-on activities it could impede children’s motor development.

Researchers also warn using a smartphone or tablet as a pacifier could have repercussions when children have to learn how to control their impulses.

"It has been well-studied that increased television time decreases a child's development of language and social skills. Mobile media use similarly replaces the amount of time spent engaging in direct human-human interaction," said Jenny Radesky, lead author and clinical instructor in Developmental-Behavioural Paediatrics at Boston University School of Medicine.

However don’t berate yourself just yet. Radesky does highlight the fact it’s a new area of research.

"The impact these mobile devices are having on the development and behaviour of children is still relatively unknown," she says.

While a lot more research needs to be done, Radesky recommends parents and guardians interact with children while using the technological devices and to not pass them off as a quick fix when a meltdown starts. She also reminds everyone to unplug and do non-technological activities from time to time.

Related links:

15 things kids of today are missing out on

Why the grandparent grandchild relationship is important for happiness

30 cheap – or free – holiday activities to do with grandkids

Tags:
Technology, family, relationships, ipad, Children, iPod