As technology becomes a constant presence in our lives, many parents are asking: How does screen time affect toddlers’ emotional development and self-regulation?
A recent study, Tantrums, Toddlers, and Technology: Temperament, Media Emotion Regulation, and Problematic Media Use in Early Childhood, explores how toddlers use media to cope with emotions—and what this might mean for their long-term emotional health.
The Growing Role of Media in Toddler Emotion Regulation
Let’s face it, when a toddler is having a meltdown, handing them a screen can feel like the only option. And sometimes, that’s okay. This post isn’t about guilt, it’s about awareness.
Research shows that while screen time can calm toddlers in the short term, it may also teach them to rely on media as a primary emotional regulation tool. Over time, this can hinder their ability to process and manage emotions without external distractions (Coyne et al., 2021).
Why This Matters
When we consistently use media to distract or “turn off” big feelings, we may unintentionally send the message that emotions are too overwhelming to handle. While the short-term peace is understandable, over reliance on digital devices for comfort can backfire.
You may already be seeing this in older children and teens, increased anxiety, depression, and screen addiction are on the rise. What begins as a harmless distraction can become an emotional crutch.
Want to dive deeper into this trend? Read: Is Social Media Helping or Hurting?
The Link Between Temperament and Screen Use
The study also highlights how a child’s temperament plays a role. Sensitive or high-energy toddlers may be more likely to use screens for comfort. Unfortunately, these are the same kids who often struggle more with emotional regulation over time when media becomes the main coping tool (Coyne et al., 2021).
Healthier Alternatives to Media for Emotional Support
So what can we do instead?
- Gentle physical touch like snuggles and hugs
- Soothing verbal affirmations
- Consistent routines
- Nature time or a calming walk
- One-on-one play and connection
These strategies aren’t just comforting, they teach toddlers real-world emotional regulation skills.
Key Takeaways for Parents
1. Screen Time Builds Habits
Frequent use of media for calming teaches kids to depend on it, and struggle when it’s not available.
2. Temperament Influences Media Use
Kids who are emotionally intense may be more drawn to media. Awareness helps us guide them to healthier alternatives.
3. Balance Is Better Than Elimination
Media isn’t “bad,” but emotional development thrives on human connection, not just digital distractions.
A Gentle Reminder
There’s no such thing as a perfect parent. We all do what we need to get through tough moments, and that’s okay. But with increased awareness, we can make small, meaningful changes that help our children grow emotionally resilient.
Let’s raise kids who feel their feelings instead of escaping them. Who turn to people, not pixels, for comfort. And who learn from us, day by day, that it’s safe to experience all emotions.
Because the goal isn’t to eliminate screen time, it’s to anchor our children in connection.
Citation:
Coyne, S. M., et al. (2021). Tantrums, toddlers and technology: Temperament, media emotion regulation, and problematic media use in early childhood. Computers in Human Behavior, 120, 106762. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2021.106762