Did You Know That Your Screen Time Affects Your Connection with Your Little One?

Screens are part of our daily lives, and as adults, it’s easy for our attention to drift towards them—whether out of habit or necessity. But this doesn’t just impact us; it also influences how we connect with our little ones. That being said, the goal isn’t to be perfect but to be aware of how our own screen time affects our relationship with our children.

Let me give you an example: when we’re looking at a screen, our facial expressions tend to become neutral or even absent. This phenomenon is known as the "blank face effect." For babies, this temporary disconnection can be confusing because they rely on our facial expressions to feel safe and loved. The absence of these signals may create discomfort or uncertainty, affecting their emotional regulation.

It’s completely normal for our attention to shift to screens from time to time. We all need those moments to disconnect or to connect with others, work, or simply take a break. But what truly matters is how we reconnect with our little ones afterward. The key is repair: when we put the screen down, we can make eye contact, smile, or even make a funny face. These small gestures are essential to reassure them that we are present and that they are safe.

Remember: it’s not about being perfect but about being present and repairing moments of disconnection when needed. If you’re looking for ideas to enrich both connection and downtime with your child, Petit Folks offers resources and tools designed to strengthen your bond.

🌿 Explore more about emotional bonding and how everyday activities can help nurture it.