Kids are supposed to be loud, they are supposed to explore, to be bored, to laugh, talk and to play. I don’t believe that screens should be part of my kids routine, because I want them to observe, explore, to see new things but most importantly to feel bored. Why? Because with boredom it comes creativity, it comes the feeling of wanting to do something and they will figure it out by themselves, or not, and that is also OK!
That is why in the video you see my daughter blowing one of her toys and laughing so hard. A few minutes prior she was bored and thought about this new “game” by herself.
Just think about this for a second, because it hit me once I figured this:
She will have the next 50-60 years in front of a screen because that is just how the world is moving… and is towards that direction. She will have screen in her school to learn, to work, for some “me time”… so why would I spend her first few years forcing her to watch stupid shows when she can enjoy the little time she has as a kid to BE A KID!?
Again, that is just my opinion, especially as a kid that grew up watching a LOT of tv. I regret that my parents would let me watch it hours instead of enjoying the outdoors, instead of going out and making new friends, or anything but the tv.
And just to make clear, I do not judge or care if you give screens to your kid. You do you. I am just giving you a different perspective as someone that grew up in front of a screen.
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In today’s digital era, it's easy for children to become glued to screens at a very young age. However, as highlighted in the main article, choosing to raise a screen-free child can profoundly impact their creativity and social development. When toddlers are given the opportunity to experience boredom, they naturally begin to invent new games and explore their surroundings without external stimulation. This self-directed play is critical because it empowers kids to develop problem-solving skills, imagination, and emotional regulation. The phrase "I refuse to raise an iPad kid" captures an important parenting philosophy: prioritizing real-world exploration over passive screen time. Research supports that excessive screen exposure may delay language acquisition and reduce attention spans in young children. Instead, activities like playing with toys, outdoor adventures, and engaging with family encourage brain development and physical health. Moreover, the reality that screens will inevitably become part of children’s educational and social lives once they enter school underscores the importance of protecting early childhood as a unique time to be curious and creative without digital distractions. This balanced approach teaches children to appreciate both technology and tactile experiences—helping them to become well-rounded individuals. It’s also worth mentioning that screen-free play promotes stronger family bonds, as parents and children interact more closely during shared activities such as reading, crafting, or simple conversations. Parents’ perspectives, especially those who grew up in front of TVs, reflect a desire for a more active and outdoor childhood experience for their offspring. Ultimately, whether to incorporate screens into a child’s routine is a personal decision for each family. However, embracing screen-free periods in early years offers invaluable benefits that shape a child’s cognitive and emotional growth. Encouraging boredom and free play allows toddlers the freedom to explore, discover, and be joyful in ways that screens often cannot replicate.
