Screen time has become a go-to solution for parents looking to keep their children occupied for a few minutes. Whether it’s enjoying a cup of coffee or taking a quick bathroom break, a tablet can provide a much-needed distraction. However, one nanny is speaking out about the negative effects she has witnessed firsthand.
In a post on Reddit, the nanny shared her disappointment and horror after seeing a four-year-old girl she cares for completely change due to excessive tablet use. The nanny, who also teaches pre-kindergarten, explained that before the iPad entered their lives, the little girl had a decent attention span and enjoyed a variety of activities like crafts, walks, and board games. But now, all she wants to do is play on the iPad, becoming irritable and demanding when redirected to other activities.
The nanny expressed her sadness at seeing the child’s transformation from an imaginative and kind kid to what she calls a “sticky iPad monster.” She has brought up her concerns with the parents but feels limited in what she can say since she only looks after the child for a few hours a week.
Dr. Samina Yousuf, a pediatrician for OSF HealthCare, warns of the potential physical and mental health issues associated with excessive screen time in children. Studies have shown links to obesity, depression, behavioral issues, and anxiety. Additionally, screen time can disrupt sleep patterns and hinder performance in the classroom.
Dr. Yousuf emphasizes the importance of patience and real-world interactions that screen time often lacks. Learning to wait, listen, and respond is crucial for developing healthy relationships and friendships as children grow up.
To help parents navigate screen time, Dr. Yousuf recommends the following guidelines: no screen time for children under two years old except for video chatting with family or friends, one hour per day of co-viewing for children aged two to five with a parent or sibling, and generally no more than two hours per day for children aged five to 17, excluding homework.
It’s clear that excessive screen time can have detrimental effects on children, and it’s important for parents to find a balance that promotes healthy development. Have you noticed a difference in your child due to screen time? Share your story by emailing eve.wagstaff@reachplc.com.
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Dr. Yousuf recommends the following guidelines for children:
Under two years old: Zero screen time, except for video chatting with family or friends
Two – five years old: One hour per day co-viewing with a parent or sibling
Five – 17 years old: Generally no more than two hours per day, except for homework
How much screen time do you allow your child? Have you noticed a difference in them? Do you have a story to share? Email eve.wagstaff@reachplc.com