Smart Smartphone Rules for Parents

A recent study conducted by the Boston Medical Center has revealed that smartphones are negatively affecting parenting.

According to an article in TIME Magazine, while secretly observing parent-child interactions at a restaurant, researchers sadly found numerous instances of parents buried in their smartphones and ignoring their children. When parents did respond, the interaction from smartphone users was likely to be harsh or negative.

While lots of previous studies have given parents advice on limiting children’s TV time, this study concluded that parents should consider the benefits from imposing a similar restriction on their smartphone usage. For example, it’s recommended to establish no-device rules at certain times of the day, especially during meal, story, and bed times.

“We really need to think about how these enticing devices not only distract us but potentially change who we are as parents,” said Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson of Seattle’s Children’s Hospital.

Do you have any self-imposed rules about your smartphone usage?