Talking or Tapping? How Technology Can Boost — or Block — Your Child’s Language Growth
Children learn to speak by hearing speech — not swipes. But the right tech, used wisely, can support language, not silence it. A child’s brain is wired for words. From birth, they’re tuning into the rhythm, tone and melody of language. And by the time they reach Reception, their vocabulary size is one of the strongest predictors of school success. But in today’s screen-saturated world, many children are hearing fewer words and speaking less. 📉 One UK study found that toddlers heard 4 million fewer words by age 3 if regularly exposed to heavy screen time. Why? Because screens can replace conversations — rather than stimulate them. 📱 The Double-Edged Sword of Digital Technology isn’t the villain. But it needs a purposeful place in a child’s day. Technology can block language when: It’s used passively (e.g., background TV, YouTube autoplay) It replaces live, responsive conversations It dominates mealtimes, play, car journeys or bedtime routines But tech can also boost language when: It’s interactive and co-viewed with an adult It encourages turn-taking, naming, predicting and discussing It builds on a child’s real-world interests The difference? Who is involved, how it’s used, and what happens afterwards. 🧠 The Language-Development Superpowers Children NeedChildren need: Serve-and-return conversations(“You said ‘moo’ – yes, the cow goes moo! What else is in the field?”) Rich, descriptive vocabulary(“That’s a shiny, golden leaf – let’s count how many we find!”) Opportunities to ask and answer questions(“What do you think will happen next?” “Why did that happen?”) Responsive adults who model speechNot robots or autoplay cartoons. Language grows in relationships, not isolation. 7 Real-World Tips to Nurture Language in a Digital Age Talk More Than You Type Narrate your day. Let children hear the rhythm of speech: “I’m chopping carrots. Orange and crunchy. What comes next?” Children don’t just need talking at them — they need talking with. Use Screens Together – Not as a Babysitter. Make tech social. Ask: “What do you see?” “How do you think they feel?” “Can you tell me what happens next?” The tech isn’t the teacher — you are. Ban Background TV Even if no one’s watching, background noise disrupts focus and play — and adults speak less when it’s on. Keep play and conversation screen-free, especially in shared spaces. Swap Swiping for Storytelling Story apps aren’t a replacement for real books or bedtime stories. Let children hear stories with: Intonation Expression Pauses for questions It’s not just reading — it’s a relationship. Encourage Pretend Play Role-play builds narrative structure, vocabulary and creativity. Whether it’s playing shops, pirates or doctors, children use rich language to bring their ideas to life. Play Sound and Listening Games Try: “I spy something that starts with S” Sound walks (what can we hear outside?) “Simon Says” for following instructions Simple games = powerful listening skills. Model Curious Conversations Ask open-ended questions: “What do you notice?”“Why do you think that happened?”“How did that make you feel?” Children absorb language from those who model curiosity. For Parents: Focus on Connection, Not Correction Children don’t need grammar lessons – they need opportunities to express themselves, be listened to, and gently expanded. If a child says: “Me goed to the park.” You can say: “Yes, you went to the park! What did you do there?” Correct through modelling, not criticism. For Nurseries and Early Years Practitioners: Conversations Come Before Worksheets In settings where school readiness is a hot topic, don’t default to formal learning. Instead: Give space for small-group storytimes Use everyday routines for rich talk (e.g., snacktime, tidy-up) Train staff in sustained shared thinking — those magical moments when an adult and child share a conversation that deepens thinking and vocabulary It’s the dialogue, not the device, that grows the brain. Don’t Panic – Talk! Children don’t need constant chatter or screen bans. They need language-rich relationships, playful exploration, and moments of wonder. So whether you’re a parent, practitioner, or both: Let’s make real-world, real-voice conversation the centrepiece of early years learning. Because before a child can read and write, they must listen and speak. 🎒 Ready to Grow a Talkative, Confident School Starter? The Sue Atkins School Readiness Toolkit gives you the resources to: ✅ Spark conversations✅ Boost listening and language✅ Balance tech time with real talk Perfect for homes, nurseries and classrooms preparing little ones for a big world. 👉 Download the toolkit here Let’s raise confident communicators — one word at a time.
Log Off, Tune In: Raising Emotionally Ready Kids Before Reception
Emotional literacy is a bigger predictor of school success than knowing letters or numbers – and it starts long before the classroom. When we talk about school readiness, we often focus on academic basics – counting to 10, recognising letters, writing their name But the quiet superpower that often gets overlooked?Emotional regulation. A child’s ability to recognise, manage and express their feelings is a stronger predictor of school success than early reading skills. And in today’s digital world – where swiping is easier than sitting with discomfort – building that inner resilience matters more than ever. What Is Emotional Regulation – And Why Does It Matter? Emotional regulation is a child’s ability to: These are the skills that allow children to thrive in group settings, solve problems, and form secure relationships with peers and teachers. Without them, even the brightest child can struggle in the classroom. How Screens Are Short-Circuiting Emotional Growth We live in a world of instant gratification. When children get bored, frustrated, or upset, it’s tempting to hand over a device. And sometimes, that’s okay. But when screens become a child’s primary coping tool, they don’t get to practise the skills they’ll need in real life: Digital devices soothe the symptom, not the system. And if we’re not careful, we raise children who can swipe through apps but struggle to sit with themselves. 6 Ways to Build Emotional Resilience Before School Starts Whether you’re a parent, teacher or nursery practitioner, you can help children build the emotional toolkit they’ll carry into Reception – and beyond. 1. Name the Feeling Start with emotional literacy.Help children put words to what they’re experiencing: “You’re really cross because the game stopped.”“That’s a sad face – did something feel unfair?” This helps reduce overwhelm and builds self-awareness. 2. Use Storybooks as Emotional Mirrors Children relate to characters. Use books where characters feel frustrated, worried, jealous, left out – and talk about it. Ask: Stories open doors to deep emotional conversations. 3. Practise Calming Strategies When Calm Teach children what helps them feel better – not just in the moment, but before the meltdown. Try: Rehearse these tools when they’re feeling good – not in the middle of a meltdown. 4. Let Them Feel It – Don’t Rush to Fix It When children are upset, it’s tempting to distract or fix it quickly – often with a screen. But sitting with them through it builds tolerance and connection: “It’s okay to be upset. I’m here with you. Take your time.” They learn that feelings pass – and they’re not alone. 5. Keep Screen Time Calm and Conscious Tech can be part of a balanced life – but not the crutch for every emotional wobble. 6. Model What You Want to See Children copy how we deal with stress.If we name our feelings (“I’m a bit tired today – I need a walk”) and use healthy strategies, they will too. We don’t need to be perfect. We just need to be real. For Parents: Regulate First, Then Educate You don’t need to rush into phonics and flashcards.If your child knows how to: Children can’t learn when they’re dysregulated. Emotional readiness is the real first lesson. For Nurseries and Professionals: Prioritise Feelings, Not Just Funding In early years settings, there’s often pressure to track learning outcomes. But emotional wellbeing must remain the priority. Give children: The most powerful ‘intervention’ is always connection. Let’s Raise Children Who Can Sit With Sadness and Celebrate Joy Children entering school today face a fast-paced world.We can’t protect them from every wobble — but we can equip them to handle life’s ups and downs with confidence and calm. So let’s put emotional resilience at the centre of school readiness.Because a child who can manage their emotions is a child who is ready to learn. 🎒 Want to Nurture Emotionally Resilient Children in a Screen-Saturated World? The Navigating the Digital Jungle School Readiness Toolkit is filled with printable resources and play-based activities to help children: ✅ Build emotional intelligence✅ Learn calming strategies✅ Navigate tech mindfully Whether you’re a parent, nursery, or early years professional, this toolkit gives you screen-savvy support with real-life emotional growth. 👉 Get it here and start the journey today
Before children are ready for school, they need time to splash, squish, dig, dance and imagine. Not swipe.
Building Brains Through Play – Why Messy, Hands-On Learning Beats Apps In a world filled with educational apps and digital flashcards, it’s easy to believe that technology holds the key to early learning. But research — and centuries of childhood wisdom — tell a different story: Before children are ready for school, they must first be ready for life. And the best preparation for life? Play. Messy, creative, real-world play. It’s how children build their bodies, their brains, their social skills, and their confidence. No app can match the power of puddle-jumping, block-building, paint-splattering exploration. Let’s explore why hands-on play is the gold standard for early learning — and what nurseries, teachers, parents and professionals can do to protect and promote it in the digital age. Why Play Is Still the Ultimate Learning Tool Here’s what happens when a child engages in unstructured, real-world play: These are not “soft” skills. They are the foundation of school readiness — and life readiness. And they can’t be rushed. They must be lived, felt, repeated and experienced in the real world. The Trouble With Swapping Play for Screens Of course, not all screen time is harmful. But here’s what we know: The more time young children spend in front of screens, the less time they spend in deep, embodied learning experiences. Screens can shortcut some surface-level knowledge (like numbers or colours), but they bypass the rich, multi-sensory learning that helps children make meaning. Children need to move to learn. They need to touch, hear, smell, climb, test, fall, and try again.An app that teaches the word “mud” is not the same as squelching in it. When we over-rely on screens to “teach,” we rob children of the messy, magical process of learning by doing. 5 Ways to Champion Real Play in a Tech-Heavy World Whether you’re a parent, early years professional, or teacher, you can help shift the balance back to play. 1. Say Yes to Mess Play isn’t always tidy. But it is always meaningful. 2. Value Play as Real Learning Shift the narrative. Play isn’t just a “break” from learning. It is the learning. 3. Create Screen-Free Zones for Deep Play Where possible, keep screens out of play spaces. 4. Offer Open-Ended Materials Loose parts play is a goldmine for creativity. 5. Be Present, Not Perfect You don’t need to set up elaborate activities. Sometimes the most powerful play happens when adults simply sit alongside, narrate, wonder aloud, or join in. Children crave connection. And connection deepens learning. For Parents: Ditching the Guilt and Embracing the Mud Many parents feel pressure to offer “educational” apps or feel guilty if their child isn’t practicing letters by age four. Let this article reassure you: If your child is pouring water between cups, balancing on logs, building towers from cushions, and hosting teddy bear picnics — they are learning. Deeply. Brilliantly. Joyfully. Don’t worry about the alphabet apps. Worry about whether your child has enough time, space, and freedom to play without a password. School Readiness Begins in the Sandpit, Not on the Screen When we prioritise hands-on, real-world play, we do more than prepare children for school. We prepare them for life. We help them: And we send a powerful message: You are not a passive consumer. You are a capable, curious, imaginative learner. Want to Give Children the Strongest Start – Beyond the Screen? 🎒 The Sue Atkins School Readiness Toolkit is packed with screen-free, brain-building, play-based activities and advice for children aged 3–6.It’s everything you need to prepare children for school without over-relying on devices. ✅ Includes printable resources, tech-balance tips, and expert insight for parents, nurseries, and early years educators. ✨ Start your school readiness journey today – filled with mud pies, giggles, and growing brains. 👉 Explore the Toolkit Here
Switching Off – The Power of Digital Detox in the Early Years
Giving young minds the breathing space they need to grow, create, and connect. We live in a switched-on world. Notifications ping, videos autoplay, and information scrolls endlessly. For adults, this constant connectivity is exhausting.For young children, it’s not just exhausting — it’s developmentally disruptive. In the crucial early years, children need time and space to daydream, wonder, move, create, and connect without digital interruption.A digital detox isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. Let’s explore why switching off is so powerful for young children — and how parents, nurseries, teachers, and early years professionals can make it part of everyday life. Why Screen-Free Spaces Matter for Growing Minds Children’s brains develop at an astonishing speed in the first five years of life.During this window, neural pathways are built based on what children experience — and, importantly, what they don’t. Screen time crowds out vital opportunities for: When we flood children’s attention with constant digital input, we leave less room for these essential experiences.Switching off gives the brain breathing space to grow. The Science Behind the Need to Switch Off Research shows: Put simply: the less time spent in front of a screen, the more time young brains have to wire themselves for learning, resilience, and emotional intelligence. How to Create Everyday Digital Detox Moments You don’t have to ban technology completely.Small, intentional screen-free pockets throughout the day can have a huge impact. Here’s how: 1. Tech-Free Zones Designate certain areas as no-screen zones — for example: Children quickly learn to associate these places with real connection and real exploration. 2. Tech-Free Rituals Anchor screen-free time to daily routines.Example: These small habits build lasting expectations about balanced tech use. 3. Boredom Bravery When children say “I’m bored,” it’s tempting to offer a tablet.Instead, embrace boredom. Give them simple prompts: Teaching children to move through boredom builds patience, creativity, and self-motivation — skills they need for life. 4. Model Digital Balance Children learn more from what we do than what we say.Put your own phone away during playtime, meals, and conversations.Show that adults value being fully present too. Digital Detox at Nursery and School: Building It In Early years settings can support detox culture by: This isn’t about being anti-technology.It’s about being pro-child. The Magic That Happens When Screens Are Put Away When the screens go dark, something extraordinary lights up: In these moments, school readiness blooms naturally — because the foundations of learning, empathy, communication, and self-regulation are being laid, screen-free and full of life. Detoxing Today, Building Brilliance for Tomorrow Switching off isn’t about deprivation. It’s about giving children the rich, complex, human experiences their developing brains crave. By weaving digital detox moments into daily life — at home, in nurseries, and at school — we gift children something invaluable: the chance to grow up grounded, connected, creative, and ready for anything. Ready to prepare your child for school and life — without the overwhelm of tech? The ‘Navigating the Digital Jungle School Readiness Toolkit’ gives you simple, powerful strategies to build real-world skills, confidence, and curiosity in children aged 3–6. Packed with screen-free activity ideas, tech balance tips, expert advice, and ready-to-go resources, it’s your go-to guide for supporting happy, healthy school transitions in today’s digital world. Discover the toolkit that gives children (and adults!) the best start possible.Explore it here.
Smart Screens – How to Use Technology to Support Your Child’s School Readiness
Smart Screens – How to Use Technology to Support, Not Replace, Early Learning When used wisely, tech can open doors — but real-world experiences must always come first. In today’s world, screens are part of everyday life. Even the youngest children see adults with smartphones, tablets, laptops, and TVs — it’s the digital air they breathe.The question is no longer whether children should have access to technology, but how we can help them use it in ways that support, not replace, healthy early development.For parents, early years professionals, and teachers, this article explores how to navigate the tricky line between embracing smart screens and protecting the real-world experiences that truly build brains.
Beyond the Screen – Why True School Readiness Starts Offline
School Ready, Tech Smart Welcome to my new School Readiness & Tech: Article Series When we talk about getting children ready for school, technology often enters the conversation early. Parents are bombarded with messages about apps that claim to teach toddlers to read, online platforms promising to make maths fun, and screens marketed as tools to give their child a head start. But the truth is more timeless and reassuring: the most important aspects of school readiness have nothing to do with technology at all. They are built offline, through real-world play, interaction, movement, and conversation. In this article, we explore what true school readiness means — and why it’s vital for early years professionals, nurseries, teachers, and parents to look beyond the screen when laying the foundations for learning. What is real school readiness? School readiness doesn’t mean being able to recite the alphabet or complete worksheets. It’s about a set of skills, attitudes, and emotional strengths that allow a child to enter the classroom with confidence and resilience. Children who are truly ready for school can: These abilities aren’t built through screen interactions. They are developed through rich, hands-on experiences that stimulate all areas of a child’s development. The Risk of Overreliance on Technology in Early Childhood There’s no doubt that technology has a place in modern childhood. Used wisely, it can support storytelling, creativity, and connection. However, when technology dominates a young child’s daily life — particularly passive screen use — it can displace the very activities that are most essential for development. For instance: In 2019, a World Health Organisation guideline suggested that children under five should have no more than one hour of sedentary screen time per day — and that infants under one year should have no screen time at all. Why? Because early childhood is a critical period for physical, emotional, and cognitive growth that can’t be outsourced to technology. Play: The Engine of Readiness If we want to prepare children for school — and life — we must protect and champion play. Play is how children explore the world, test out ideas, develop resilience, and learn to collaborate. In play, they make decisions, solve problems, experience emotions, and work out how to negotiate with others. They encounter frustrations (“the tower fell down!”) and learn to persevere (“I’ll try again.”). Simple, screen-free experiences are incredibly powerful: When children are immersed in play, they are not “just playing” — they are laying down the neural pathways that will support reading, writing, maths, science, and emotional resilience later on. Building Readiness Without Screens: Practical Tips For early years settings, schools, and parents, the question becomes: how can we support school readiness in a world saturated with technology? Here are some practical steps: Conclusion: A Different Kind of Head Start The best preparation for school doesn’t come from a screen, a worksheet, or a “learn to read” app. It comes from connection, conversation, play, and exploration. When we give children the freedom to move, create, imagine, and interact with real people and the real world, we are not holding them back — we are giving them the most powerful head start of all. Because readiness isn’t about what children know — it’s about how they approach learning itself.And that journey always begins beyond the screen. Ready to give your child the very best start? Discover the ‘Navigating the Digital Jungle School Readiness Toolkit’ — your complete guide to preparing confident, resilient, and curious learners. Packed with expert advice, practical activities, downloadable resources, and step-by-step strategies, this toolkit is trusted by parents, nurseries, and teachers alike. Whether you’re supporting one child or a whole group, it’s the easy-to-use, research-backed roadmap that helps you balance real-world play and healthy technology habits — giving children everything they need to thrive, both now and as they start school. Explore the toolkit today and start building a brilliant foundation for lifelong learning. Discover more on the link here.
#ScreenFreeEarlyYears: Little Minds, Big Futures
Congratulations on your beautiful new baby! These first precious years are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to nurture your baby’s brain, deepen your bond, and lay the foundation for their great future! Waiting is worth it — delay screens. Give your child the best start — for learning, language, and life. This short guide explains why waiting is worth it, and how to do it gently and confidently. I’m here to walk beside you on that journey — and the science is firmly on your side. 1. Your Face Is Their First “Screen” Simple tip: When feeding or cuddling, keep your phone tucked away. Let your baby’s world be filled with your eyes, voice, and love. 2. The First 1000 Days Shape a Lifetime Why a Gentle, Screen-Free Start Matters for Your Baby’s Future In the first two years, your baby’s brain is growing faster than it ever will again — and every cuddle, conversation, and playful moment helps build strong foundations for life. Here’s what the research shows: The good news? You don’t need fancy apps, baby videos, or flashing lights to help your little one thrive. Your voice, your smile, your arms, your playful chats — they are the greatest gifts you can give. 💛 Every screen-free cuddle, every babbled conversation, every silly dance is building your baby’s brain, heart, and future. Simple tip: Prioritise real-world play: rattles over videos, peekaboo over cartoons, songs over background TV. 3. Screens Can Crowd Out Bonding & Sensory Play Simple tip: Keep a soft play mat or a cosy corner with baby-safe toys (like rattles, soft books, or textured fabrics) instead of relying on screens. Focus on face-to-face interactions, gentle touches, and responding to their coos and babbles. Skin-to-Skin Time Nothing beats the warmth of your skin against your baby’s. Skin-to-skin contact in those first hours, days, and even weeks can promote bonding, regulate body temperature, and enhance the emotional connection between you and your baby. Gentle Baby Massage Use soft, nurturing touch to bond with your baby. Gentle massages help with relaxation and can strengthen the parent-child connection. Try simple strokes on their arms, legs, and back, always ensuring you follow the baby’s cues. Eye Contact and Smiling Your baby’s brain develops through face-to-face interactions. Hold your baby close, look into their eyes, and smile. The early recognition of facial expressions will help foster trust and attachment. Cuddling and Holding Cuddling your baby is one of the simplest yet most powerful bonding activities. Holding them close helps them feel secure, loved, and comforted. Experiment with different holds (cradle hold, babywearing, etc.) to see what works best for you both. Talking and Singing Babies are naturally wired to respond to voices. Talk to your baby throughout the day, narrating simple things you’re doing, like “Now we’re getting your blanket” or “Look at the pretty light outside.” Singing lullabies or soft songs also creates a calming atmosphere. Baby’s First Bath Bath time is a special bonding moment. Gently wash your baby, talking to them softly throughout the process. The warm water and touch can be a relaxing experience for both of you. Tummy Time While tummy time helps with physical development, it’s also an opportunity for bonding. Lay down with your baby and encourage them to lift their head and push up. Stay close to them, making eye contact and offering smiles of encouragement. Reading Together Even at a young age, babies love the sound of their parents’ voices. Reading simple, soft books with colourful pictures is a great way to engage and bond with your baby. It also starts building their language skills early. Soothing Touches (Patting, Rocking, or Swaying) Gentle movements like swaying or rocking your baby can be incredibly calming and soothing. This rhythmic motion mimics the environment of the womb and helps foster a sense of security. Responsive Feeding Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, use feeding time as an opportunity for bonding. Hold your baby close, make eye contact, and offer words of affection while feeding. These moments of nourishment also nurture their emotional development. Put your phone down. Nappy Changing Nappy changing time is a perfect moment for eye contact, smiles, and little chats — simple ways to bond and build your baby’s brain, without any distractions from a phone. Explore Sensory Play Touch, sound, and sight are key senses your baby is developing. Gently exploring different textures (soft toys, fabrics, your skin) can be a great bonding activity. Baby-safe objects with contrasting colours or simple musical instruments (like a soft rattle) will stimulate their senses and allow you to bond through play. Nature Walks (Babywearing or Stroller) Take a walk outside in nature with your baby, either by using a carrier or pushing a stroller. Fresh air, nature sounds, and a change of scenery can be soothing for both you and your baby. Talk to them about what you see — leaves, trees, animals — to engage their senses. Put away your phone. Baby’s First Lullaby or Sound Create a special sound or lullaby just for your baby. This could be a specific song or even a soothing hum or phrase that they come to associate with comfort and security. Watch Your Baby’s Development Celebrate small milestones together, like when your baby rolls over or starts smiling. Express your joy and excitement, which helps create a loving, encouraging environment for your baby’s growth. Bonding with Siblings or Family Members If you have other children, involve them in bonding time by encouraging them to talk to, sing to, or gently touch the baby. This can build a strong family connection and foster positive sibling relationships early on. By focusing on these screen-free activities, you can strengthen the bond with your baby and lay the foundation for a secure, loving relationship throughout their development. These moments are not just about emotional bonding — they’re also vital for your baby’s overall growth. 4. Connection Builds Confidence Simple tip: Narrate your day out loud to your baby — “Now we’re putting on
Sleep & Screens: Navigating the Digital Jungle at Bedtime 💤 📱
Sleep is the unsung hero of healthy development – yet in homes across the country, it’s under siege from glowing screens, pinging notifications, and endless scrolling. Whether it’s a toddler transfixed by cartoons or a teen watching TikToks past midnight, devices are distracting, stimulating, and interfering with one of the most essential parts of family life: a good night’s sleep. So how do we, as parents, navigate this part of the digital jungle? Let’s start by understanding why it matters – and then move to what we can do about it. Why Sleep Matters – At Every Age From babies to teenagers, sleep plays a critical role in: How Devices Disrupt Sleep Here’s what’s going on: What Parents Can Do – Practical Tips 1. Create a Digital CurfewSet a household rule that all devices are off at least an hour before bed – ideally longer for teens and toddlers alike. 2. Make Bedrooms Screen-Free ZonesCharge phones in the kitchen. Swap tablets for real books. Make the bedroom a place for rest, not reels. 3. Establish a Calm Bedtime RoutineWind-down time could include a warm bath, a story, gentle music, or journaling. Routine helps signal the brain that sleep is coming. 4. Model It YourselfChildren of all ages notice your habits. Try not to scroll while saying goodnight or check your phone during bedtime routines. Scripts to Start the Conversation These aren’t lectures. They’re calm, confident conversations that build connection, not conflict. For Toddlers & Young Children“Let’s tuck the tablet into bed too. It needs to rest so we can have more fun tomorrow!” For Primary School Kids“Screens are fun, but sleep is superpower fuel. Let’s put the tablet away now so your brain and body can grow strong while you sleep.” For Tweens“I know it’s tempting to sneak a scroll, but your brain deserves a break. Want to come up with a bedtime playlist or read together for a few minutes instead?” For Teens“I get that your phone helps you stay connected. But the science is clear – sleep is essential for your mood, memory, and mental health. How can we make this easier – maybe a charging spot downstairs?” A Final Thought Helping your child sleep better isn’t about being strict – it’s about being smart. In this part of the digital jungle, it’s not the lion we need to worry about, but the lure of one more video, one more scroll, one more level. Navigating this together, with empathy and consistency, can transform the bedtime battle into a bedtime bond.
What is Screen Time Costing our Children in the Early Years?
In a world where screens are everywhere—from smart TVs and tablets to phones in our pockets—it’s no surprise that even our youngest children are being drawn into the digital swirl. But as technology becomes more embedded in daily life, a growing body of research is urging us to pause and ask: What is screen time costing our children in the early years? Toddler tantrums & tech — what’s really going on? You’re in a café. Your toddler’s bored. You hand them your phone. Peace… for now. Sound familiar? In today’s digital world, more and more parents are turning to screens to soothe toddler meltdowns. But while it might feel like a lifeline in the moment, over time it can delay something far more important: your child’s ability to regulate emotions. Tantrums aren’t “bad behaviour.” They’re big feelings in little people who don’t yet have the words—or the tools—to cope. As a parenting expert, I help families shift from “Plug in and Pacify” to “Pause and Connect.” Here are 3 quick tips to help your toddler learn emotional resilience—without always reaching for tech: Name it to tame it – “You’re feeling cross because we had to leave the park.” Create a calm corner – A cosy space with books, cuddly toys, or sensory items. Model calm – Your calm is contagious. Breathe through the storm together. Let’s raise children who can feel their feelings—not fear them. Let’s use tech intentionally—not as a crutch. Pause to Ponder and if you need a hand I’m here to help. 1. The Science of Screen Exposure The first five years of life are a time of incredible brain development. During this window, children’s brains are building the neural foundations for empathy, language, attention, and emotional regulation. And the best way to support that growth? Through real-world, multi-sensory interactions—not screens. When children engage with people, nature, and open-ended play, they experience the kind of stimulation that strengthens brain architecture. But when screens dominate the early years: These aren’t just minor hiccups—they’re foundational to a child’s lifelong wellbeing. 2. Tech in the Nursery: Helpful or Harmful? Screens are becoming more common in early years settings—sometimes used for entertainment, sometimes for managing behaviour, and often marketed as “educational.” But most so-called educational apps are built for profit, not child development. They often offer flashy animations and reward-based systems that interrupt deeper thinking and learning. More importantly, screen time can displace the very things young children need most: When screens are overused, they crowd out the simple joys of childhood—the games, the giggles, the mess, the magic. 3. Early Attachment in a Digital Age Let’s talk about technoference—that moment when a parent looks down at their phone during play, or scrolls through messages while feeding their baby. It may seem small, but for a child, these interruptions can chip away at their sense of being seen, heard, and valued. Young children don’t just need to be cared for; they need to feel emotionally connected. Screens can’t offer that connection—only human presence can. Secure attachment forms through micro-moments: eye contact, soothing words, shared laughter. These are the interactions that teach a child, “You matter. You’re safe. You are loved.” 4. Reclaiming Childhood Childhood isn’t a race. It’s not a performance. It’s a sacred time of wonder, curiosity, and discovery. Reclaiming it in the digital age means having the courage to say: It’s not about banning technology but about making intentional choices. Let’s model presence. Let’s protect time for play, connection, and creativity. Let’s remember that the best “app” for a young child is a present adult. A Final Thought Our children are growing up in a digital world, and that isn’t going to change. But the way we introduce and balance technology can change. Let’s start early. Let’s be thoughtful. Let’s reclaim childhood—not just for our kids, but for ourselves too. Need a little extra support?Download my ‘Navigating the Digital Jungle. A Parents’ Guide to Manage Toddlers and Tech with Scripts to feel more confident, connected, and calm—one moment at a time. Let’s start a conversation.How are you managing tantrums and tech at home or in your setting?
From Baby Bottles to Brand Loyalty: Is Big Tech Marketing to Your Baby?
Marketing to babies and toddlers is a growing concern, especially in today’s tech-driven world. The marketing industry has increasingly turned its focus to the youngest consumers, making them targets for everything from toys to digital devices, often before they can even speak or make decisions for themselves. Here’s how this trend plays out, why it’s troubling, and what you as a parent need to know. 📊 The Rise of Targeting Babies and Toddlers In recent years, companies have ramped up their marketing strategies to reach the parents of babies and toddlers. While this may sound innocent at first—promoting educational toys or products that help with early development—there’s an increasing amount of marketing that is pushing products and experiences aimed at babies, toddlers, and young children as a way to create long-lasting brand loyalty. Baby Tech Tech companies have jumped on this bandwagon by marketing tech products such as smart baby monitors, app-driven toys, and even baby-friendly tablets. This isn’t just about convenience for parents. Some companies claim these devices can help babies learn quicker or be more connected to their parents through technology. But this raises serious concerns about how early tech exposure impacts early brain development. Influence of “Mommy Blogs” and Social Media Mothers and fathers are often targeted on platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, where “mommy influencers” show off the latest products for their babies—ranging from organic baby food to $300 strollers. These influencers unintentionally become part of the marketing machine, promoting products that aren’t always necessary or beneficial for a child’s well-being. And this is amplified by algorithms that keep showing them more products, making parents feel like they need these things for their children to thrive. Branding the Baby Some brands have even gone so far as to create entire “personalities” for babies. Infants are marketed with specific traits like “the sporty one” or “the curious one,” turning them into little consumers before they’ve even had the chance to explore their own identities. This leads to kids being influenced at a much younger age to develop specific tastes and desires based on brand marketing rather than their own organic interests. 😨 Why Parents Should Be Concerned Early Tech Exposure:Research shows that exposure to screens and tech at an early age can hinder development. Babies’ brains are rapidly developing in their early years, and the interactions they have with their environment, caregivers, and physical play are critical. Studies suggest that passive screen time can delay language development and interfere with social skills. The earlier children are exposed to tech, the harder it is for them to disconnect when needed later in life. Consumerism Before Consciousness:When babies and toddlers are marketed to, they’re not yet in a position to make informed choices about what they want or need. This marketing often leads parents to believe they need products to ensure their child is getting the best start in life—sometimes leading to overspending on things that aren’t truly necessary. Babies are often marketed toys or products as “educational” when they might actually be more about creating brand loyalty from an early age. Parental Pressure:The constant stream of “must-have” products can cause parents to feel immense pressure. Parents may feel that they need to buy the latest tech gadgets, clothes, or toys to keep up with the trends. This also creates a cycle of stress, as parents may start comparing their lives to curated influencer content, leading to self-doubt and consumer guilt. Brand Loyalty Formed Too Early:By the time children are toddlers, brands have already started to shape their desires. The influence of logo recognition, advertising jingles, and character-based branding starts to take root very early. This creates a powerful brand loyalty that’s hard to break, making it difficult for children to make decisions based on personal taste or practicality as they grow older. 👨👩👧👦 What Parents Can Do Limit Screen Time for Babies and Toddlers:Follow the guidance from experts such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, which recommends no screen time for babies under 18 months, except for video chats. For toddlers, screen time should be limited to one hour per day with educational content, and it’s important to watch it together to provide context and interaction. Focus on Developmentally Appropriate Play:Instead of focusing on “high-tech” toys, prioritize age-appropriate, hands-on toys that encourage creativity and physical play. Building blocks, sensory toys, and outdoor activities can stimulate your child’s development in a much healthier way. Be a Critical Consumer:Parents should be wary of marketing tactics that target them through influencers or social media ads. Ask yourself if the product being marketed truly benefits your child’s well-being or if it’s just another trend designed to make you feel like you need it. Encourage Active Engagement:Engage with your child in ways that build their emotional, cognitive, and physical skills. Reading books, singing songs, and having meaningful interactions without digital distractions are critical for healthy development. Model Healthy Tech Use:As your child grows, model how to use technology mindfully. Show them that tech is a tool, not a crutch, and emphasize the importance of balance—ensuring that outdoor play, family time, and real-world interactions are prioritized. 🔍 Final Thoughts While it’s impossible to completely shield children from the digital world, we can take steps to limit their exposure and teach them to navigate it thoughtfully. By being critical consumers and focusing on the development of our kids rather than jumping into the latest tech trends, we can help preserve their innocence and encourage healthy growth. As parents, it’s our job to keep Big Tech in check, making sure it doesn’t define who our kids are or who they become. Questions to Ponder for Parents: Is this product truly necessary for my child’s development, or is it just a clever marketing gimmick? How much screen time is appropriate for my baby or toddler, and how can I create healthy boundaries? Am I allowing my child to form brand loyalty before they are old enough to make independent choices? How do I ensure my child’s
