PARENTS who give their screaming kids phones or tablets to calm them down are making their tantrums worse, a study reveals.
Scientists found children aged three to five had worse behaviour if parents regularly gave in to the “quick fix”.
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They said mums and dads should instead try to channel kids’ energy into physical activity or teach them acceptable ways to express their emotions.
Dr Jenny Radesky, of the University of Michigan, US, said: “Using a mobile device doesn’t teach a skill — it just distracts the child away from how they are feeling.
“Kids who don’t build these skills are more likely to struggle when stressed out.”
The study of 422 children and 422 parents showed the kids often given a screen when upset had “higher emotional reactivity” six months later, with more extreme emotions and mood swings.
Experts said parents must teach kids how to cope with their feelings.
Dr Radesky added: “It takes repetition by a caregiver who also needs to try to stay calm.”
