Mum shares how disappointed she is to see children being handed a device to keep them quiet when it’s really not necessary.

The mum wrote, “I just can’t believe the number of babies and toddlers that are sitting in prams or trolleys with some kind of device in their hands.

“They’re usually completely focussed and have no idea what’s going on around them.

She added, “I know how it is! Sometimes we just need to occupy our kids. But is handing your child a device becoming more of a habit than a necessity? Is this really the way of the future for our kids?”

Another mum also wrote similar on Facebook, “W H A T. I S. G O I N G. O N ?”

“Today I took my son out to the shops. We went up & down the escalators & looked in the shop windows at watches.

“I’m noticing something more & more every time I go out. And it’s really starting to get me down.

“Like, really upsetting me & making me feel quite sad.

“I just can’t believe the amount of toddlers & babies that are sitting in a pram or trolley with a device in their hands- totally disengaged from the world around them.

“Now, I’m honestly not meaning to sound like judgemental Jenny here. I get it. Sometimes you just need some peace & quiet whilst you do the shopping. I have worked with enough special needs families to know that sometimes kids just need to zone out. This is different.”

Many parents agreed, saying how frustrating it can be to see children outdoors at the park or even the beach playing on a device. (now that is something I don’t agree with either!)

Others have said we really just need to mind our own business and stop being judgemental about how other people parent.

“I mind my own pram not anyone elses.”

“If it’s not your child it’s not your business. Do what’s right for you and your child. As someone with 2 autistic boys who was followed and abused for 15 mins because my 6 year old non verbal child was in the pram – you do not know what another family is going through. So be supportive or shut up!”

“You also have no idea what has led up to that. I don’t often give my two year old my phone when we’re out, but sometimes I do. Maybe people see me in that moment and judge, but maybe I’m just really worn out that day and can’t handle another toddler tantrum, or I’ve been criss-crossing the city on public transport all day, or (right now) she’s in that nap-transition stage which means afternoons can be a NIGHTMARE but I know the stage will pass. So in short, mind your own.”

“Not my place to judge. Focus on raising your own children instead of others.”

“I think we should stop shaming other parents just because we don’t agree with something they’re doing. You have absolutely no idea of their circumstances, so why comment on it? I’m honestly SO sick of seeing these ridiculous debates, seriously, try focusing on your own life rather than those of others.”

“I just can’t believe the number of nosey-ass people passing by.”

“I think we should let everyone parent in their own way.”

“I think we should just all mind our business? What a novel concept that would be?!”

This comment was actually something to really think about, “My whole life the tv was on when people were home. The radio in the car. Is it any different? Technology just advanced.”

However this cafe owner obviously agrees, after banning iPads and iPhones from the table saying he just wants parents to “engage with their children” and for families to be “involved with the food and experience”. Read more here.

Join our Facebook discussion below:

Image via Unsplash