7 Proven Strategies to Combat the “Tech Tantrum” in Toddlers

Have you ever tried to take a screen away from your toddler, only to be met with a full-blown meltdown?

That is called a "tech tantrum", it is when a toddler gets really upset because they can't have their tablet or phone. In recent studies, toddlers on average, spent more than 3 hours of screen time, which is pretty alarming.

It's important for us to handle tech tantrums so our child can develop healthy screen habits and everyone can have a more peaceful day. In this article, we'll share seven easy strategies to help you manage and prevent tech tantrums, making life smoother for you and your little one.

1. Establish Clear Tech Time Limits

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), children aged 2 to 5 should have no more than one hour of screen time per day.

To do this, set specific times for tech use, like after lunch or before dinner. Let your toddler know when screen time starts and ends with a timer. Also, try to use simple language to explain why there are limits, like "We need to give our eyes a rest."

This approach reduces the chances of surprise, making transitions smoother. And having structured screen time helps toddlers know what to expect, leading to fewer meltdowns and encouraging more physical play and social interaction, which are important for development.

2. Create a Tech-Free Routine

Incorporating activities that don't involve screens into your toddler's daily routine helps them engage in different kinds of play and learning. They are less likely to have meltdowns when they have fun. 

This can include spending time at the park, going for a walk, or playing in the backyard allowing them to go outdoors without screen time. Also, encourage your kids to draw, paint, or build with blocks and to read books together or even play with toys, or do puzzles, helping them to be more creative and interactive without the use of screens. 

3. Use Parental Control Tools

Research found that approximately 4 out of 5 parents (81%) use at least one technical tool or parental control to manage their child's online content access. These tools help you manage and monitor your toddler's screen time by setting limits and filtering content. 

Look for parental control apps or settings that fit your needs. Many devices have built-in options, or you can download dedicated apps. Configure daily or weekly screen time limits so your child can only use devices for a set amount of time. Additionally, try to use settings to block inappropriate content and ensure your child only accesses age-appropriate material. 

4. Model Healthy Tech Habits

Kids often follow what they see, so if you use tech wisely and responsibly, your toddler is likely to do the same. Showing good habits helps them learn how to balance screen time, setting them up for better tech habits in the future.

As a parent, be mindful of using your phone, like checking your phone only during certain times or taking breaks from technology. When spending time with your child, put away your devices and focus on them. Explain to them why you’re using screens and how you manage your own screen time. 

5. Offer Alternative Entertainment

It's important to provide your toddler with fun activities that don’t involve screens. This helps them develop a range of skills and keeps them engaged without relying on technology.

Here are some activities to limit them on screens:

• Outdoor Activities: Go for a walk, play at the park, or have a picnic. Nature is a great way to stimulate your toddler’s curiosity and energy.
• Creative Play: Set up a space for drawing, painting, or crafting. Let your child explore their creativity with different materials.
• Interactive Toys: Use toys that encourage hands-on play, like building blocks, puzzles, or play dough.
• ‍Storytime: Read books together or create your own stories. It’s a great way to bond and expand their imagination.
• Music and Dance: Play some music and have a dance party. It’s a fun way to get moving and express themselves.

Doing these activities keeps your toddler’s attention, can be more enriching than screen time and promotes a more balanced lifestyle. 

6. Implement a Reward System

To start with this, define what behaviors you want to encourage, such as playing outside, completing a craft project, or limiting screen time. Use a simple chart to track your child's progress. Stickers or stars can be used to mark achievements. Pick rewards that your child will be excited about, like extra playtime, a small treat, or a special activity. 

Your child will have real incentives for sticking to screen time limitations and participating in other activities if you implement a reward system. A well-organized approach aids in encouraging healthy behavior and preserving consistency in screen time management.

7. Communicate and Involve Your Toddler

Based on a study, the biggest problems in parent-child relations were cited as a lack of dialogue with 35%. That’s why involving your toddler in discussions about screen time helps them understand the rules and feel included in decision-making. This can lead to better cooperation and fewer tantrums. 

To help you more, here are some tips:

• Simple Explanations: Use age-appropriate language to explain why screen time needs to be limited. For example, “Too much screen time isn’t good for our eyes.”
• ‍Listen to Them: Ask your toddler how they feel about screen time limits and listen to their thoughts and feelings.
• ‍Set Expectations Together: Involve your child in setting screen time rules. Let them help decide when and how long they can use screens.
• ‍Offer Choices: Give your toddler options for non-tech activities to help them feel more in control. For instance, ask, “Would you like to play with your blocks or read a book?”

By using these strategies, you can make them feel valued and more willing to stick to the agreed-upon limits.

Make it More Effective with Aro

Remember, consistency and patience are key. These strategies may take time to show results, but with persistence, you'll see positive changes in your toddler's behavior.

And one way to become so effective together with these strategies is with the help of Aro. Aro's innovative hardware not only charges your phone and tracks downtime but also helps you establish healthier tech routines for the whole family, reducing screen time stress.

Create a tech-free environment that benefits both you and your toddler—discover the balance with Aro today! You’ve got this, and your efforts will lead to happier, healthier tech habits for your little one!