Is Your Phone Stealing Your Child’s Future? (The Shocking Truth!)

By Michaela Gordoni

A recent study highlights a concerning trend: parents’ engagement with social media can negatively impact their children, even when the devices are out of sight.

The research revealed that mothers who devoted significant time to social media interacted less verbally with their children during playtime compared to those with limited social media use. This effect persisted even when the mothers weren’t actively using their phones, according to a report by CNN.

Specifically, mothers who averaged 169 minutes per day on social media spoke approximately 29% less to their children during play sessions compared to those who averaged just 21 minutes.

While the study focused on mothers, it’s reasonable to anticipate similar, or potentially even more pronounced, effects on fathers.

“Often, our minds drift toward activities that offer more immediate pleasure, and social media fulfills that role for many,” explained Kris Perry, executive director of Children and Screens: Institute of Digital Media and Child Development.

The very design of social media platforms encourages addictive behavior.

Kara Alaimo, communication professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University, emphasizes the importance of constant communication between parents and their children. She is also the author of Over the Influence: Why Social Media Is Toxic for Women and Girls — And How We Can Take It Back.

Related: Parents Spend More Time on Phones Than With Kids

According to study lead Liz Robinson, “Children are keenly aware of where their parents are looking, and they learn what is deemed important. When our attention is constantly directed toward a device, we are communicating to our children what holds importance in that moment. Our undivided attention is one of the most valuable gifts we can offer.”

Robinson suggests parents dedicate at least 15 minutes each day to giving their children their full, undivided attention.

Robinson advises parents to remind themselves that “the present moment is all that exists in your child’s mind. While you may have numerous thoughts and priorities vying for your attention, try to compartmentalize them and be fully present with your child, who only knows this moment and seeks only your attention.”

It’s well-documented that parental phone use can lead to reduced communication, delayed responses, or heightened reactions to interruptions.

A study published earlier this year indicates that children exhibit more negative behaviors and outbursts when their parents spend considerable time on their phones, ultimately affecting their overall well-being.

Parents have a responsibility to recognize their social media and phone usage patterns and how they may be impacting their children.

Perry suggests, “Understand the personal impact of social media on yourself, and take steps to minimize any negative effects before interacting with your child.”

Read Next: ‘Mom, Do You Notice Me?’ Why Parents Need to Put Their Phones Away for Their Kids

Questions or comments? Please write to us here.