25/07/2025
I am a working mom, and like many parents juggling work and childcare, I occasionally use screen time to help manage my day. That doesn’t make me a bad mom, and it certainly doesn’t mean my child is “addicted” to TV.
At 21 months, my daughter knows over 350 words. She’s already speaking in phrases and clearly expressing her wants, needs, and emotions. She loves books (especially when her dad reads to her), chatting with neighbors and store clerks, and learning about animals, just like her Dada. She’s curious, social, and full of personality.
She’s also learning independence in small but meaningful ways. She uses a fork and spoon to feed herself, helps with laundry, wipes up messes when something spills, and even tidies up her toys and books. These may seem like little things, but they show how engaged, observant, and eager she is to be part of the world around her.
When she does have screen time, it’s non-stimulating, educational, and age-appropriate. I often sit with her, talk about what she’s watching, and reinforce the learning. It’s one tool among many, not a substitute for real-life connection.
She doesn’t cry when the TV turns off. She transitions easily, because screens aren’t her whole world but just a small part of it.
I am sharing this not to explain myself, but to remind others that every child is different, and every parent is doing their best. If a child isn’t engaging with you in a particular moment, it doesn’t mean something is wrong, or she is addicted to TV. It may just mean they are focused on something else. And that’s okay.
Let’s offer each other more grace. Parenting is already hard and judgment doesn’t make it any easier.
