Why Infants Don’t Need Screens…and What to Do Instead
May is Screen-Free Month and is the perfect time to reset our habits and rethink the role of screens in our children’s lives. If you’re parenting a baby, here’s a simple but powerful truth: you never need to introduce your infant to screens.
Many well-meaning parents and caregivers believe that screen time benefits babies, but research consistently shows that infants under 18 months gain no developmental benefits from screens…and in some cases, screen exposure can have negative effects on brain development.
So why do so many adults think babies need screens? Let’s break down some common myths, and explore real-life alternatives that support your baby’s growth and well-being.
Mistaken Reasons Adults Think Babies Need Screens
"But It’s Educational!"
The Myth: Many parents believe that “educational” videos or apps help babies learn words, colors, or numbers.
The Reality: Research shows that babies under 18 months do not learn from screens the way they do from face-to-face interactions. Real-world experiences, especially responsive interactions with caregivers, are the true foundation of early learning.
What to Do Instead:
Talk to your baby throughout the day, describing what you’re doing.
Read board books together…even if they just attempt to chew on them at first!
Sing songs, play peekaboo, or simply narrate their surroundings.
"It Keeps Them Calm"
The Myth: A short video or phone screen soothes a fussy baby.
The Reality: Screens don’t truly soothe…they distract. Babies need real co-regulation from caregivers to learn how to manage emotions. Relying on screens for calming can prevent babies from developing natural self-soothing skills over time.
What to Do Instead:
Rock, sway, or walk with your baby.
Use a gentle voice and soothing touch.
Offer a pacifier or a soft, comforting object.
If safe, step outside…fresh air works wonders!
"They Look So Interested!"
The Myth: Babies seem mesmerized by screens, so they must be learning something!
The Reality: Babies are wired to be drawn to fast-moving visuals and bright lights, but that doesn’t mean screens are good for them. Too much exposure can actually overstimulate their developing brains and interfere with attention span development.
What to Do Instead:
Let them explore safe, everyday household objects (wooden spoons, measuring cups).
Give them a baby-safe mirror to look at their own reflection.
Play simple games like "Where's Your Nose?" or "Pat-a-Cake” or “Peek-a-boo."
"I Need a Break!"
The Myth: Parents give babies screens so they can cook, clean, rest, or check their phone.
The Reality: You deserve breaks, but screens don’t have to be the answer. Babies don’t need screens to be occupied; they need safe, independent play opportunities suited to their age.
What to Do Instead:
Place them on a play mat with a few interesting textures (fabric scraps, silicone teether, soft rattle).
Use a secure playpen with a few simple toys.
Let them watch you while narrating your tasks (“Mommy is making coffee now!”).
And if you really need a moment, it’s okay to let them be safely in their crib for a few minutes while you take a breath.
"I Need Screen Time, Too"
The Myth: Parents feel guilty using screens in front of their baby, so they assume the baby needs one too.
The Reality: It’s okay for you to use screens in moderation! The key is to minimize screen exposure for your baby, even when you’re scrolling or working.
What to Do Instead:
Turn the screen away from your baby so they aren’t directly watching it.
Use audio-only options (podcasts, audiobooks, music) to stay entertained while caring for your baby.
Let them safely play near you while you check your phone briefly.
Screens are a part of life — but your baby doesn’t need one to stay engaged.
"It’s Just for Fun!"
The Myth: A funny video makes the baby laugh, so it must be a good thing!
The Reality: Babies laugh even more at real-world interactions! Face-to-face play and silly gestures build social and emotional skills in a way that screens simply can’t.
What to Do Instead:
Make silly faces or funny noises.
Blow raspberries on their tummy.
Play hide-and-seek behind a blanket.
Use everyday objects to create fun surprises (peekaboo with a dish towel!).
Your baby’s favorite form of entertainment? YOU (or the other caregiving adults in their life)!
The Bottom Line: Babies Learn from Life, Not Screens
The best way to support your baby’s development is through real-world experiences, loving interactions, and everyday moments.
Babies don’t need screens to learn, calm down, or be entertained.
They need faces, voices, and safe spaces to explore.
They need YOU.
This Screen-Free Month, let’s embrace a different approach. Let’s give our babies what they truly need: presence, connection, and simplicity.
The playroom at BabySpace Coachella Valley.
BabySpace Coachella Valley
Becoming a parent is a profound and life-altering experience, but it comes with its fair share of unspoken challenges. Meeting with other parents and exploring together what you are envisioning life could look like with your infant and toddler is an invaluable piece of new parenthood. By sharing experiences with others in a place like a BabySpace Coachella Valley Mommy and Me group, parents can find solace in the shared journey of raising the next generation, embracing both the joys and the trials that come with it.
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