Kristen Bell Shared Some Parenting Advice That Has Us Rethinking How We Use Technology
Parents [rightfully] spend a lot of time managing their kids’ screen time. How much is too much? What is and isn’t appropriate? And are they allowed to be on social media after so many experts and legislators have issued warnings about the harm to kids’ mental health?
What parents don’t always think about as much (no judgment! That plate of yours is full!), is their own screen time. Especially their screen time around their kids.
Actress Kristen Bell — who shares daughters Lincoln, 10 and Delta, 8 with husband Dax Shepard — shared a post from Dr. John Delony on her Instagram story that has us rethinking how and when we use our smart devices.
“Look your children in their eyes,” the post — that was also liked by celebrities Hilary Swank, Sharna Burgess, and Jeannie Mai Jenkins — said. “As soon as you hear their voice, put down your phone and look them in their eyes.”
“Even if you just have to tell them that you need some time to finish a project, read an email, or send a text,” Delony continued. “But don’t talk to a child without making eye contact. Your children deserve more respect and dignity than a fancy metal box.”
His message is so powerful, simple, and true. Eye contact shows kids that the adults in their lives are paying attention and respecting what they have to say. That they have that adult’s full focus. And that, yes, they are more important and deserving of attention than a “fancy metal device” — be it a phone, tablet, or computer.
While some commenters felt this was unfair since phones are often used to do things for their kids (order groceries, schedule appointments, etc.), others agreed that this practice is really critical.
“This is SO important to me! I get red when I see people not give the respect to put down their phone and make eye contact with the person trying to share something with them ESPECIALLY when it’s a child. But people of all ages deserve to feel *seen and heard*”
“!!!!!! As someone who works with varying ages of kids in school I will tell you … these kids are STARVING FOR THIS!!! when I walk through a school campus I have kids screaming out hellos or eager to come over and see me. When I’m asked ‘what’s your trick’ … I always say it’s so simple. STOP. Get to their level for eye contact and listen. That’s it. I can’t stress this enough. Give them 1000% of your attention and interest.”
It might be an adjustment, but it really does seem like a low-effort thing to do that will have majorly important, long-lasting benefits for every family — and we’re going to try it out.
These celebrity parents have gotten honest about their rules when it comes to technology.