The Boston Medical Center recently launched a study to measure the dynamic interaction between smartphones, parents and children as children continue to feel that they are competing for attention with their parent’s gadgets. The study indicated that as parents continue to be absorbed by emails or apps on their smartphone, more negative interaction with their children takes place.
Dr. Jenny Radesky, specializing in developmental and behavioral pediatrics at Boston Medical Center, was curious to inquire how the distraction of smartphones affects quality time with children. Her research concludes that the more parents use their smartphone in front of their children, the more negative the children’s interactions become. She therefore recommends starting the following at home:
Dr. Jenny Radesky, specializing in developmental and behavioral pediatrics at Boston Medical Center, was curious to inquire how the distraction of smartphones affects quality time with children. Her research concludes that the more parents use their smartphone in front of their children, the more negative the children’s interactions become. She therefore recommends starting the following at home:
- Establish a no-device rule at certain times of the day and specific areas in the home. For example, setting aside the device during meal time, story time and bed time is a great start.
- Recognize that responding to email or scanning Facebook while your kids are waiting or attempting to get your attention isn’t fair to them as it can change the nature of your relationship with your kids. We don’t want them to feel that they are not as important as your device.