My son has had screen time since he was 3 months old. I see it as a necessity for parenting.
A parent argues that screen time for young children is a necessary tool for stay-at-home parents to manage productivity and childcare costs. The author defends the practice, noting that educational content can provide developmental benefits.
Why it matters
It reflects the broader societal debate regarding parenting standards, the economic pressures on families, and the role of technology in child-rearing.
The author said screens are sometimes a necessity in a parent's life. (author's child not shown) Paulo Sousa/Getty Images I use screen time as a tool to balance parenting and my personal productivity needs. My son, 2, often watches educational content, Disney movies, and musicals. Watching TV helped my son develop social skills, and I have no regrets. It's a cloudy afternoon and my 2-year-old is watching "The Lego Movie," while my husband works his 9-to-5 job. I am in charge of our kid, the primary caregiver or stay-at-home-mom, if you will. But I have things to do too, and I can't afford a nanny. So for the next two hours, a movie will act as my babysitter. My kid is still and calm, safe on the couch while I type right next to him, checking things off my own to-do list.
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