Renowned parenting guru Jo Frost, best known as Supernanny, has issued a stark warning to modern parents: stop using iPads and smartphones as digital pacifiers for your children.
In an exclusive interview, Frost expressed concern over the growing trend of parents relying on screens to keep kids quiet, emphasising the long-term developmental consequences of this approach.
The Screen Time Epidemic
"We're seeing a generation of children being raised by devices rather than parents," Frost stated. "While technology has its place, it should never replace human interaction and proper parenting."
The childcare expert highlighted several concerning effects of excessive screen time:
- Delayed speech and language development
- Reduced attention spans
- Impaired social skills
- Increased behavioural issues
Back to Basics Parenting
Frost advocates for a return to traditional parenting methods that focus on:
- Face-to-face interaction
- Creative play without screens
- Establishing clear boundaries
- Consistent routines
"Children need engagement, not entertainment," she stressed. "That tablet might give you 30 minutes of peace, but at what cost to your child's development?"
Practical Alternatives to Screen Time
The parenting coach offered simple alternatives to digital pacification:
- Reading physical books together
- Engaging in arts and crafts
- Playing educational board games
- Encouraging outdoor exploration
Frost's message comes as recent studies show children as young as two are spending up to three hours daily on screens - far exceeding recommended guidelines.
