Generation Z (born 1990-2010) often uses the term “iPad kids” when talking about Generation Alpha (born 2010 – 2024). What does this term mean? Are teenagers more aware of the negative effects that unlimited internet use has on kids than adults may think?
Parents Magazine describes an iPad kid as “a child with excessive screen time.”
The criticism Gen Z has for these iPad kids isn’t spineless, research has found that overindulgence of screens has resulted in kids developing unwanted, unhealthy, and odd behavioral patterns.
It seems like Gen Z believes that adults lean too much on parenting and entertaining kids, so much so that they “lack any family or social interaction.”
Suggested screen time for children goes by age; no screen time is recommended for kids 18 months old and younger, extremely minimal highly educational screen time for kids 18 to 24 months, and no more than an hour for kids ages 2 to 5 years old, as stated by children’s health organization, CHOC.
It’s not unusual to see toddlers glued to screens. Whether they’re on an iPad while families eat at restaurants or older kids noticing their siblings concerning reliance on these devices.
While letting kids scroll through the internet for entertainment may seem harmless, excessive use of technology can lead to “mood changes, depression, and trouble sleeping, which over time can lead to issues such as weight gain and a weakened immune system,” as explained by Parents.
“What we try to focus on in my household is moderation,” explained Sarah Davis, teacher and parent to two young children, “That’s across the board with all things, we don’t like to restrict because it puts more emphasis on how cool screen time can be.”
CHOC shares studies showing that playing a TV in the background of conversations can stunt language development since the parents are likely to talk less. The same can be said for stunted motor development and social skills.
Pew Research Center showed in a survey that 89 percent of parents with kids ages 5 to 11 say their kids watch videos on YouTube. The same goes for 81 percent of parents with kids ages 3 to four and 57 percent of parents with kids ages 2 and younger.
While it’s almost impossible to completely avoid screen time in this day and age, limiting screen time at home and encouraging outdoor activities is important.
It’s suggested parents consider how they allow kids to use screen time and limit usage to educational material. It’s stated that showing kids an episode of “Bluey” isn’t harmful occasionally, but relying on it every time the child fusses isn’t healthy. Giving children technology for unwanted behavior tells the kids they will be rewarded for bad behavior, as stated by Parents.
Parents can also start slowly switching screen time for other activities. Instead of an hour of screen time before bed, try convincing kids to read or get energy out by playing with toys.
Creating a schedule for screen time can also help parents manage their child’s usage. Keeping these rules firm and following similar rules as the kid helps show healthy behaviors.
“I think we must regulate how much time and how to use screens safely. It’s important, especially in today’s culture, for kids to know how important screens are and how to use them safely,” expressed Davis.
While other generations are concerned about the future of Gen Alpha, the future of these “iPad kids” is not set in stone. Healthy changes to screen use while raising kids can set them up for a bright future.
