Many British parents find it challenging to manage their children’s screentime, with 6 out of 10 admitting they struggle to control how often and how long their child spends in front of screens. Over 4 in 10 (44%) have attempted to reduce their child’s screentime but found the task too challenging, with 32% noting that it often leads to tantrums.
During occasions like birthdays or Christmas, when children often receive new devices, managing screentime becomes even more challenging. Recognising this challenge, mother and baby retailer JoJo Maman Bébé partnered with clinical psychologist Dr Melody Smith to explore the impact of excessive screentime on children and share tips to achieve a healthier balance.
Dr Smith warns of the developmental risks linked to excessive screentime, which include difficulties with focus, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. She explained: “Screens are everywhere – phones, tablets, computers, TVs – and while they can be useful and fun, too much screentime can have various impacts on children’s health and development. It can alter the way their brains work, affecting areas responsible for attention, decision-making, and emotional control.”
Excessive screen use can overstimulate the brain’s reward system, making it difficult for children to concentrate on less exciting but essential activities such as reading or playing outdoors.
The hidden costs of screen dependence
Dr Smith also highlighted how screen reliance can affect children’s soft skills, which are crucial for social and emotional development. “Spending too much time on screens reduces opportunities for outdoor play, reading, and peer interaction, all of which are vital for growth. A child who frequently chooses screentime over playing with friends may struggle to develop strong social skills, such as cooperation or sharing,” she noted.
This over-reliance often leads to a sedentary lifestyle, contributing to physical health concerns. Moreover, excessive screentime before bedtime can disrupt sleep patterns, as Dr Smith explained: “The blue light from devices can inhibit the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep. Poor sleep quality can make children tired, irritable, and less able to concentrate during the day.”
Younger children, particularly those under five, are more vulnerable to these effects. Dr Smith cautioned that overexposure to fast-paced screen content can harm developing attention spans, making it harder for them to engage in slower-paced activities like reading or imaginative play.
Practical strategies for reducing screentime
To help parents establish a healthier relationship with technology, Dr Smith suggests starting small: “The key to reducing screentime is to make it gradual and offer fun alternatives. Begin by cutting down screentime in 10–15 minute increments. For example, if your child watches two hours of TV after school, reduce it to 1 hour and 45 minutes and introduce activities like puzzles or building blocks during the extra time.”
Involving children in the decision-making process can also lead to better adherence to new routines. “Children are more likely to follow rules when they feel part of the process. Explain the reasons for reducing screentime and set family rules, like turning off all devices an hour before bedtime,” Dr Smith suggested.
She also recommends offering engaging alternatives to prevent tantrums: “Providing an exciting activity immediately after screentime can ease the transition. Consistency is key – stay calm and firm even if there’s resistance.”
Parents can model healthy screen habits themselves, demonstrating a balanced approach to technology. Dr Smith emphasised the importance of structure: “Incorporating screentime into a routine that includes homework, outdoor play, and chores helps balance activities. Positive reinforcement, like a reward system, can encourage children to embrace screen-free activities.”
Screen-free gift ideas for the Christmas season
For parents seeking screen-free gifts, JoJo Maman Bébé offers an extensive range of options, including educational toys, books, and creative playsets. Suggestions include a £99 rocking horse for toddlers, a £118 adjustable balance bike, and a £120 wooden play kitchen complete with accessories.
Dr Smith underscored the value of such alternatives, noting: “Screen-free gifts encourage imaginative play and help children develop essential skills while having fun.”
With the right strategies and tools, parents can help children strike a healthier balance between screentime and other activities, fostering emotional, social, and cognitive development.
