It’s a common sight–toddlers with tablets…you see them everywhere, even with babies in strollers. But is it a good idea to give babies and toddlers tablet time? We’ve all seen the meltdown when their parents try to take the tablet away. That should be a clue, but is there more going on than just an upset from taking away a “toy?”

If you keep up with the research, you should be concerned whether a parent, grandparent, teacher or friend. There are so many issues surrounding what early technology use does to the developing brain of our children. For example, we know that screen time impacts visual processing, empathy, attention, complex memory and early reading skills.

And now another concern is the uptick in bad behavior, i.e., temper tantrums.  Is there an association between anger outbursts and tablet use? In addition, a battle can ensue between the adult and child when screens are limited as well. The reinforcing effects of technology makes them want more.

To learn more about this, a new study published in JAMA pediatrics looked at the association between toddler anger outbursts and tablet use. They found that toddlers at age 3.5 who used tablets had higher rates of anger outbursts one year later. And then those children (age 4.5)  were more prone to anger  outbursts at age 5.5 years. In other words, early tablet use contributed to emotional regulation problems as the child grew.

Thus, using tablets to babysit, distract or keep a toddler occupied in order for you to get something done will backfire. Yes, they may be temporarily quiet and distracted, but the increase of more temper tantrums developing overall is not a good outcome.The rewarding feeling of the technology will not help a child self-regulate. They will push for more.

So parents, grandparents, take the tablet away, engage the child in real time activities, conversations and the people around them. They don’t need this type of entertainment or even learning at such a young age.

Nothing substitutes for human interaction in early childhood development. Kids need people, not technology. They learn best from face-to-face interactions with those around them to both regulate and learn emotional cues. Children need diverse, real- time experiences to let their minds wander and be creative as well. Boredom is good for creativity and imagination.

Save the technology for later!