2024-08-13 21:29:36
Conducted during the pandemic, this study was carried out with 300 children aged between 3 to 5 years throughout the school year. The researchers notably examined the time spent in front of screens and the frequency of tantrums or frustration.
“The level of anger and frustration in 4-year-old children predicted an increase in tablet use at the age of 5,” explained Professor Caroline Fitzpatrick from the University of Sherbrooke, who led this research.
According to the specialist, parents use screens as a “tool for managing negative emotions” rather than as an “internal strategy for emotion regulation.”
However, as a parent, it can be challenging to set limits on a daily basis. This is why Ms. Fitzpatrick believes that certain strategies should be adopted from the start. “We can establish a screen use plan before children start using screens,” she elaborated. “Parents can also implement good routines.”
“At first, it was forbidden before the age of 3. We didn’t allow any screen time at all. Starting at 3, we set a timer. […] We tell [them to understand]: ‘I understand that this makes you angry, but we will spend time as a family.’”
Pediatricians also recommend not exposing children under 2 years old to screens, except for exceptional situations such as short video calls.
“We recommend one hour per day of screen time for children aged 2 to 5 years,” concluded the professor in the interview.
Watch Alexandra Paré’s report in the video.