Tablet Babies: Should Kids Be Allowed Screen Time?
The debate over children and screen time has grown louder in recent years, especially with advancements in technology and the increasing presence of smartphones, tablets, and apps in everyday life. Today, stricter rules about kids accessing social media platforms are being enforced, sparking discussions about how parents should manage screen time for their children. While some parents firmly oppose raising "tablet babies," others acknowledge the challenges of modern parenting and the realities that necessitate screen use.
Pop star Rihanna, for example, has expressed her determination to avoid raising "tablet babies," referring to her sons, Rza and Riot. Yet, many parents feel that such advice, particularly from wealthy celebrities, can oversimplify the issue. As one parent pointed out, childcare is expensive, and sometimes even a short break offered by educational screen content, like YouTube’s beloved Miss Rachel, can be a lifesaver for busy or overwhelmed caregivers.
Miss Rachel, a popular educational YouTuber, has been dubbed the "globe's nanny" by some parents. Her videos, often focused on teaching young children basic skills like counting, colors, and forming sentences, have been credited with helping toddlers develop while giving parents a moment of reprieve. For some, the curated and limited use of such content feels like a healthy compromise. However, others argue that even educational screen time should be minimized, especially for children under two, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The WHO guidelines are strict: no screen time for children under two, a maximum of one hour per day for kids aged two to five, and limited recreational use for older children. Yet these rules can be difficult to follow in practice. Parents often point out that modern life is full of situations—long flights, late-night shifts, or simply the need for a brief pause—where screens become a practical solution.
Critics of excessive screen use note that today’s digital landscape is far more immersive and addictive than the television-watching habits of previous generations. The argument is that tablets and smartphones aren’t just entertainment devices—they actively reprogram children’s brains in ways we don’t yet fully understand. These "digital natives" are growing up in a technological world that their parents can barely navigate themselves.
Still, for many parents, the key is balance. One mother shared that while her child isn’t given free rein with screens, they do allow limited use of devices on special occasions, like long flights. Others mentioned relying on more traditional forms of entertainment, like books, toys, and outdoor play, but acknowledged that screens can sometimes be the only thing that holds a child’s attention when all else fails.
Another concern, especially for older children, is the content they’re exposed to and the potential dangers of social media. Many parents admit they don’t always know what their kids are viewing or who they’re talking to online. This lack of transparency can lead to anxiety and a need for tighter controls. Experts stress the importance of open communication and teaching children how to navigate the digital world responsibly, rather than simply forbidding screens altogether.
Of course, parenting has never been about perfection. As one mother humorously confessed, playing the same movie repeatedly gave her the breathing room she needed to survive the chaos of motherhood. She even credits those films with influencing her children’s creativity later in life. While this approach might not align perfectly with strict guidelines, it highlights the reality for many parents—doing their best under challenging circumstances.
Ultimately, the conversation about screen time shouldn’t revolve around judgment or rigid rules. Instead, it’s about finding practical solutions that fit each family’s unique circumstances. Whether that means setting stricter time limits, using screens sparingly as a tool, or focusing on content quality, the goal is the same: raising children who can thrive in a world that’s increasingly connected but still full of opportunities to unplug.
