Bhubaneswar: Experts say your smartphone habits could be shaping your child’s behaviour more than you realise. Here’s what every parent should know.
A growing body of psychological research suggests that children’s behaviour is influenced not only by the amount of time they spend on screens but also by how often their parents use smartphones in their presence. Experts say frequent parental phone use can reduce face-to-face interaction, emotional responsiveness and meaningful bonding, potentially affecting a child’s attention span, emotional development and social skills.
Researchers note that children learn by observing the behaviour of adults around them. When parents are frequently distracted by their phones, opportunities for conversation, play and emotional connection may decline, influencing a child’s cognitive and behavioural development over time.
The findings underscore the importance of cultivating healthy digital habits across the entire family. Experts recommend setting aside phone-free time during meals, playtime and family interactions to encourage stronger relationships and support children’s overall development.
-OdishaAge
