A mother’s decision to use an iPad to pacify a cranky toddler during a family dinner sparked a heated online debate. The incident, shared on Reddit by a user seeking advice, has drawn a wide range of opinions about appropriate screen time for young children. Some users criticized the mother for resorting to technology to deal with a child’s tantrum, while others defended her for keeping the dinner from turning into a chaotic mess.
The controversy centers on the growing reliance on screens as a tool for managing children’s behavior. Pediatric psychologist Michael G. Wetter commented on the situation, emphasizing the importance of developing internal coping mechanisms in children rather than relying on external stimulation. Wetter pointed out that routine use of screens for pacification could contribute to difficulties with attention, frustration tolerance, and emotional regulation in the long run. He recommended maintaining a