Tanya Dutt

Is Your Baby Teething? Signs Parents Should Watch For

Baby Teething

Baby chewing or biting

Baby teething timeline

Baby teeth

Solid foods for kids

Watching your baby reach milestones is one of the most exciting parts of parenthood. From the first smile to the first steps, these milestones are moments to cherish. But there's another significant milestone that often goes unnoticed until it happens- teething. While it may not be celebrated with the same enthusiasm as a baby's first word or crawl, teething is an inevitable part of your baby's growth. 

Understanding the signs of teething, knowing what to expect, and being prepared to ease your baby’s discomfort will make this experience much smoother for both of you.

Babies typically start teething around 4 to 7 months of age, though the timing can vary. Genetics play a large role in when your baby gets their first tooth. Some babies may sprout their first tooth as early as 3 months, while others may not get their first tooth until they are over a year old. This variance is completely normal, and no cause for concern. The two central incisors — the front teeth- usually emerge first, either in the upper or lower gum. These are followed by the opposite front teeth, the molars, and then the canines or eye teeth.

By the age of 3, most children will have all 20 of their primary teeth. These baby teeth will eventually be replaced by 32 permanent teeth by the time they reach their teenage years.

Teething can be uncomfortable for your baby, but it’s important to recognize the signs so you can respond appropriately. While the exact symptoms may vary from one baby to another, the following are some common signs that your baby may be cutting their first teeth:

One of the first signs of teething is excessive drooling. As your baby’s gums swell in preparation for a new tooth, they may begin drooling more than usual.

Teething babies often seek relief by chewing on anything they can find, from toys to their own fingers. This helps soothe the pressure in their gums.

The discomfort of teething can make your baby fussy or irritable. They may cry more than usual, especially when trying to sleep or eat.

It’s common for babies to run a mild fever while teething. If your baby’s temperature rises above 101°F (38.3°C), however, it may be a sign of an illness rather than teething.

As teeth push through the gums, they can become red, swollen, and tender. Your baby may rub their gums with their hands or chew on hard objects to ease the discomfort.

Teething doesn’t always cause distress. Some babies sail through the process without much trouble, while others may experience significant discomfort. Either way, it’s important to watch for these signs so you can care for your baby during this phase.

<h2>What Symptoms Are NOT Related to Teething?</h2>

While teething can cause discomfort, there are some symptoms that should not be attributed to it. These include:

<ul><li>High Fever: A fever over 101°F (38.3°C) is unlikely to be caused by teething and could indicate an infection or illness. </li><li>Rash: A rash on the body, face, or near the mouth may be a sign of something other than teething.</li><li>Diarrhea or Vomiting: These gastrointestinal symptoms are not related to teething and should prompt a call to your pediatrician.</li><li>Cough or Congestion: Respiratory issues such as coughing or nasal congestion are signs of a cold or another illness, not teething.</li></ul>

If your baby develops any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult your pediatrician for further guidance.

<h2>Teething Timeline: When Will Teeth Appear?</h2>

The timing of your baby’s tooth eruption follows a general pattern, but there can be plenty of variation. Here's a guideline for when you can expect your baby’s teeth to come in:

Every child is different, and the order of tooth eruption may differ slightly, but this general timeline can help parents understand what to expect.

<h2>Easing Teething Discomfort: Tips for Parents</h2>

Teething can be a challenging time, but there are several ways to ease your baby’s discomfort. Keep in mind that while some babies experience only minor irritation, others may feel more significant pain. Here are some effective methods to soothe your teething baby:

Using a clean finger, gently massage your baby’s gums. This can provide some relief by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation.

A cool teething ring can be a great option for soothing sore gums. Make sure to choose one made from firm rubber, as softer rings may be too squishy to provide relief. Avoid freezing teething rings, as they can become too hard and potentially cause harm to your baby’s delicate gums.

A cool compress can also provide some comfort. Try placing a spoon in the refrigerator (not the freezer) and applying it to your baby’s gums. Just be sure to avoid using metal spoons if your baby has any teeth already, as they could potentially chip the tooth.

While teething can cause discomfort, it should not result in serious illness. If your baby develops a fever higher than 101°F (38.3°C) or exhibits symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, consult your paediatrician. If the teething symptoms seem unusually severe or persist for a prolonged period, don’t hesitate to reach out for medical advice.

<h2>When Should You Take Your Baby to the Dentist?</h2>

It’s recommended that your baby see a dentist within 6 months of their first tooth appearing, or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. Pediatric dentists are trained to care for infants and young children, and you can find one through the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s website.

<h2>Cleaning Your Baby’s New Teeth</h2>

As soon as your baby’s first tooth erupts, it’s important to start a cleaning routine. Use a soft, child-sized toothbrush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice. Avoid letting your baby fall asleep with a bottle, as milk can pool around their teeth and encourage tooth decay.

It’s important to avoid certain practices when soothing teething discomfort. For instance, never use over-the-counter teething gels containing benzocaine or lidocaine, as they can be harmful to babies and cause serious health risks. Amber teething necklaces, while popular, can pose choking hazards and should be avoided. Always consult your pediatrician before trying any new methods for relieving teething pain.

Teething is a challenging but inevitable phase of your baby’s development. While it can cause discomfort and irritability, understanding the signs and knowing how to ease the pain can help both you and your baby navigate this milestone with less stress. 

<a href="https://www.mychildrensteeth.org/age-group-resources/?filter=Infants" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank" rel="noopener nofollow noreferrer" rel= "noopener nofollow noreferrer" target= "_blank">American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry</a>

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Watching your baby reach milestones is one of the most exciting parts of parenthood. From the first smile to the first steps, these milestones are moments to cherish. But there's another significant milestone that often goes unnoticed until it happens- teething. While it may not be celebrated with the same enthusiasm as a baby's first word or crawl, teething is an inevitable part of your baby's growth. Understanding the signs of teething, knowing what to expect, and being prepared to ease your baby’s discomfort will make this experience much smoother for both of you.When Does Teething Begin?Babies typically start teething around 4 to 7 months of age, though the timing can vary. Genetics play a large role in when your baby gets their first tooth. Some babies may sprout their first tooth as early as 3 months, while others may not get their first tooth until they are over a year old. This variance is completely normal, and no cause for concern. The two central incisors — the front teeth- usually emerge first, either in the upper or lower gum. These are followed by the opposite front teeth, the molars, and then the canines or eye teeth.  By the age of 3, most children will have all 20 of their primary teeth. These baby teeth will eventually be replaced by 32 permanent teeth by the time they reach their teenage years.What Are the Signs of Teething?Teething can be uncomfortable for your baby, but it’s important to recognize the signs so you can respond appropriately. While the exact symptoms may vary from one baby to another, the following are some common signs that your baby may be cutting their first teeth:Increased DroolingOne of the first signs of teething is excessive drooling. As your baby’s gums swell in preparation for a new tooth, they may begin drooling more than usual. Chewing and BitingTeething babies often seek relief by chewing on anything they can find, from toys to their own fingers. This helps soothe the pressure in their gums.  IrritabilityThe discomfort of teething can make your baby fussy or irritable. They may cry more than usual, especially when trying to sleep or eat.Slight FeverIt’s common for babies to run a mild fever while teething. If your baby’s temperature rises above 101°F (38.3°C), however, it may be a sign of an illness rather than teething.Tender, Swollen GumsAs teeth push through the gums, they can become red, swollen, and tender. Your baby may rub their gums with their hands or chew on hard objects to ease the discomfort.  Teething doesn’t always cause distress. Some babies sail through the process without much trouble, while others may experience significant discomfort. Either way, it’s important to watch for these signs so you can care for your baby during this phase.What Symptoms Are NOT Related to Teething?While teething can cause discomfort, there are some symptoms that should not be attributed to it. These include:High Fever: A fever over 101°F (38.3°C) is unlikely to be caused by teething and could indicate an infection or illness. Rash: A rash on the body, face, or near the mouth may be a sign of something other than teething.Diarrhea or Vomiting: These gastrointestinal symptoms are not related to teething and should prompt a call to your pediatrician.Cough or Congestion: Respiratory issues such as coughing or nasal congestion are signs of a cold or another illness, not teething.If your baby develops any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult your pediatrician for further guidance.Teething Timeline: When Will Teeth Appear?The timing of your baby’s tooth eruption follows a general pattern, but there can be plenty of variation. Here's a guideline for when you can expect your baby’s teeth to come in:Lower Teeth:- Central Incisor: 6–10 months- Lateral Incisor: 10–16 months- Canine (Cuspid): 17–23 months- First Molar: 14–18 months- Second Molar: 23–31 months  Upper Teeth:- Central Incisor: 8–12 months- Lateral Incisor: 9–13 months- Canine (Cuspid): 16–22 months- First Molar: 13–19 months- Second Molar: 25–33 monthsEvery child is different, and the order of tooth eruption may differ slightly, but this general timeline can help parents understand what to expect.Easing Teething Discomfort: Tips for ParentsTeething can be a challenging time, but there are several ways to ease your baby’s discomfort. Keep in mind that while some babies experience only minor irritation, others may feel more significant pain. Here are some effective methods to soothe your teething baby:Gentle Gum MassageUsing a clean finger, gently massage your baby’s gums. This can provide some relief by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation. Teething RingsA cool teething ring can be a great option for soothing sore gums. Make sure to choose one made from firm rubber, as softer rings may be too squishy to provide relief. Avoid freezing teething rings, as they can become too hard and potentially cause harm to your baby’s delicate gums.Cold CompressA cool compress can also provide some comfort. Try placing a spoon in the refrigerator (not the freezer) and applying it to your baby’s gums. Just be sure to avoid using metal spoons if your baby has any teeth already, as they could potentially chip the tooth.  When to Call the PaediatricianWhile teething can cause discomfort, it should not result in serious illness. If your baby develops a fever higher than 101°F (38.3°C) or exhibits symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, consult your paediatrician. If the teething symptoms seem unusually severe or persist for a prolonged period, don’t hesitate to reach out for medical advice.When Should You Take Your Baby to the Dentist?It’s recommended that your baby see a dentist within 6 months of their first tooth appearing, or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. Pediatric dentists are trained to care for infants and young children, and you can find one through the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s website.Cleaning Your Baby’s New TeethAs soon as your baby’s first tooth erupts, it’s important to start a cleaning routine. Use a soft, child-sized toothbrush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice. Avoid letting your baby fall asleep with a bottle, as milk can pool around their teeth and encourage tooth decay.What to AvoidIt’s important to avoid certain practices when soothing teething discomfort. For instance, never use over-the-counter teething gels containing benzocaine or lidocaine, as they can be harmful to babies and cause serious health risks. Amber teething necklaces, while popular, can pose choking hazards and should be avoided. Always consult your pediatrician before trying any new methods for relieving teething pain.Teething is a challenging but inevitable phase of your baby’s development. While it can cause discomfort and irritability, understanding the signs and knowing how to ease the pain can help both you and your baby navigate this milestone with less stress. American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

is your baby teething? signs parents should watch for

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Parents Have A Huge Impact On Their Children's Eating Habits: Study

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Kids love copying their parents, whether it is because they wish to act like grown-up or just wish to feel connected to them. However, what we may not have realized is that the eating habits of our parents can unknowingly seep into our own lifestyle, especially our parents’. 

A father's eating habits can have a big effect on what their children eat, even before those children are born, according to a new study. Men who ate healthy as teenagers were more likely to show good eating habits to their own kids and keep a close eye on what their children consumed. Habits like eating healthy, exercising and other healthy lifestyle choices are something one should teach their child. These findings were shared at a meeting of the American Society for Nutrition in Orlando, Florida. 

Researchers explained that fathers who ate healthier as teenagers were more likely to encourage positive food habits in their children. She noted that these fathers were better at modeling healthy eating—showing good dietary habits themselves—and monitoring how many unhealthy foods, like certain sweets and snacks, their children ate. 

For this study, researchers looked at information from 669 men. These men had filled out questionnaires about their eating habits when they were teenagers. Years later, in 2021 and 2022, when they had children aged 1 to 6, researchers asked them about their kids' diets. The men in the study were initially part of a larger study in the 1990s and 2000s and had completed at least two diet surveys during their teen years. 

The researchers used a common tool called the Healthy Eating Index to score how well the men ate. A higher score meant eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, and lean proteins. It also meant eating less refined grains, salt, added sugars, and unhealthy fats. This tool helped them clearly see the quality of the men's diets. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Teen Diet Quality Varied</span>, with Clear Outcomes </h2>

<ul><li>About 44% of the men had a poor diet.</li><li>Around 40% had their diet quality get worse over time.</li><li>Only 16% had a diet that improved and became healthier as they grew up.</li></ul>

The results showed that men whose diets improved during their teenage years were 90% more likely to show healthy eating habits to their kids as fathers. They were also 60% more likely to keep an eye on what their children ate. 

Because these fathers had healthier habits, their children were much more likely to eat the daily recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables. This difference was especially clear when compared to kids whose dads had unhealthy diets as teenagers. 

The research highlighted that healthy eating habits developed during the teen years don't just help individuals, but also influence how they parent in the future, leading to better nutrition for the next generation. This finding is particularly important given the rising concerns about childhood obesity and poor diets. Investing in good nutrition for teenagers, including boys, can create long-lasting benefits that extend across many generations. 

Parents and eating habits

teen diet quality varied

children's eating habits

Helping children eat healthy

teen healthy eat

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Kids love copying their parents, whether it is because they wish to act like grown-up or just wish to feel connected to them. However, what we may not have realized is that the eating habits of our parents can unknowingly seep into our own lifestyle, especially our parents’. A father's eating habits can have a big effect on what their children eat, even before those children are born, according to a new study. Men who ate healthy as teenagers were more likely to show good eating habits to their own kids and keep a close eye on what their children consumed. Habits like eating healthy, exercising and other healthy lifestyle choices are something one should teach their child. These findings were shared at a meeting of the American Society for Nutrition in Orlando, Florida. Teen Habits Shape Future Dads Researchers explained that fathers who ate healthier as teenagers were more likely to encourage positive food habits in their children. She noted that these fathers were better at modeling healthy eating—showing good dietary habits themselves—and monitoring how many unhealthy foods, like certain sweets and snacks, their children ate. For this study, researchers looked at information from 669 men. These men had filled out questionnaires about their eating habits when they were teenagers. Years later, in 2021 and 2022, when they had children aged 1 to 6, researchers asked them about their kids' diets. The men in the study were initially part of a larger study in the 1990s and 2000s and had completed at least two diet surveys during their teen years. The researchers used a common tool called the Healthy Eating Index to score how well the men ate. A higher score meant eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, and lean proteins. It also meant eating less refined grains, salt, added sugars, and unhealthy fats. This tool helped them clearly see the quality of the men's diets. Teen Diet Quality Varied, with Clear Outcomes The study found that as teenagers: About 44% of the men had a poor diet.Around 40% had their diet quality get worse over time.Only 16% had a diet that improved and became healthier as they grew up.The results showed that men whose diets improved during their teenage years were 90% more likely to show healthy eating habits to their kids as fathers. They were also 60% more likely to keep an eye on what their children ate. Healthier Next Generation Because these fathers had healthier habits, their children were much more likely to eat the daily recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables. This difference was especially clear when compared to kids whose dads had unhealthy diets as teenagers. The research highlighted that healthy eating habits developed during the teen years don't just help individuals, but also influence how they parent in the future, leading to better nutrition for the next generation. This finding is particularly important given the rising concerns about childhood obesity and poor diets. Investing in good nutrition for teenagers, including boys, can create long-lasting benefits that extend across many generations. 

parents have a huge impact on their children's eating habits: study

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Why Generic Medicines Could Be the Game-Changer in Maternal Care In India

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India has made commendable progress in maternal health over the past few years. According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) dropped from 130 deaths per 100,000 live births (2014–16) to 97 in 2018–19. Yet, experts argue that now is the time to move beyond just reducing deaths—towards strengthening maternal well-being, long-term recovery, and dignity.

Girish Agarwal, co-founder and COO of Zeno Health, a generic medicine delivery brand, shares, as reported in India Today, how improving access to essential medicines can be the next big step in this journey.

<h4>The Hidden Cost of Nutritional Deficiencies</h4>

Maternal nutrition is often reduced to calorie intake—but that’s only part of the picture. True maternal health depends on access to key micronutrients that support foetal growth, improve maternal immunity, and speed up postpartum recovery.

However, deficiencies remain a significant problem. As per the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019–21), 52.2% of pregnant women in India are anaemic. This is more than a health statistic; it signals a gap in equitable access to vital care—particularly among low-income and rural households.

These deficiencies are linked to complications such as low birth weight, premature delivery, and chronic fatigue after childbirth. Fortunately, many of these issues can be prevented with consistent access to supplements and timely medical care.

<h4>Moving from Crisis to Continuity</h4>

While antenatal care in India has improved, postnatal care remains uneven—especially in underserved areas. According to a 2023 NITI Aayog report, women in rural regions are almost twice as likely to face complications post-childbirth compared to those in urban settings.

This disparity points to more than just inadequate infrastructure. It highlights the need for sustained and affordable healthcare models that work in real-world conditions—beyond just big cities and well-funded hospitals.

<h4>Generics: A Scalable, Affordable Solution</h4>

One of the most practical ways to close this gap is through high-quality <span>generic medicines</span> and supplements. These can drastically cut costs for families without compromising on efficacy.

However, affordability alone is not enough. Generic medicines must be embedded in a system of trust and accessibility. That means empowering pharmacists, making generics part of regular health conversations, and ensuring last-mile delivery systems that work consistently across geographies.

<h4>Building Trust in What’s Affordable</h4>

There’s a persistent myth that affordable means inferior. To shift this perception, public confidence in generic medicines must be reinforced through transparent communication, pharmacist training, and quality assurance.

Generic medicines shouldn’t be seen as second-best. They can help transform maternal healthcare from a series of emergency interventions to a continuous, proactive care system. With the right support, they offer not just cost savings—but a path to health equity and long-term maternal well-being.

maternal care

parenting

maternal care india

generic medicines

mother health

womens health

India has made commendable progress in maternal health over the past few years. According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) dropped from 130 deaths per 100,000 live births (2014–16) to 97 in 2018–19. Yet, experts argue that now is the time to move beyond just reducing deaths—towards strengthening maternal well-being, long-term recovery, and dignity.Girish Agarwal, co-founder and COO of Zeno Health, a generic medicine delivery brand, shares, as reported in India Today, how improving access to essential medicines can be the next big step in this journey.The Hidden Cost of Nutritional DeficienciesMaternal nutrition is often reduced to calorie intake—but that’s only part of the picture. True maternal health depends on access to key micronutrients that support foetal growth, improve maternal immunity, and speed up postpartum recovery.However, deficiencies remain a significant problem. As per the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019–21), 52.2% of pregnant women in India are anaemic. This is more than a health statistic; it signals a gap in equitable access to vital care—particularly among low-income and rural households.These deficiencies are linked to complications such as low birth weight, premature delivery, and chronic fatigue after childbirth. Fortunately, many of these issues can be prevented with consistent access to supplements and timely medical care.Moving from Crisis to ContinuityWhile antenatal care in India has improved, postnatal care remains uneven—especially in underserved areas. According to a 2023 NITI Aayog report, women in rural regions are almost twice as likely to face complications post-childbirth compared to those in urban settings.This disparity points to more than just inadequate infrastructure. It highlights the need for sustained and affordable healthcare models that work in real-world conditions—beyond just big cities and well-funded hospitals.Generics: A Scalable, Affordable SolutionOne of the most practical ways to close this gap is through high-quality generic medicines and supplements. These can drastically cut costs for families without compromising on efficacy.However, affordability alone is not enough. Generic medicines must be embedded in a system of trust and accessibility. That means empowering pharmacists, making generics part of regular health conversations, and ensuring last-mile delivery systems that work consistently across geographies.Building Trust in What’s AffordableThere’s a persistent myth that affordable means inferior. To shift this perception, public confidence in generic medicines must be reinforced through transparent communication, pharmacist training, and quality assurance.Generic medicines shouldn’t be seen as second-best. They can help transform maternal healthcare from a series of emergency interventions to a continuous, proactive care system. With the right support, they offer not just cost savings—but a path to health equity and long-term maternal well-being.

why generic medicines could be the game-changer in maternal care in india

When The Tables Turn: How Parental Phone Addiction Is Impacting Kids And Changing Family Dynamics

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Not too long ago, it was parents who sighed at their children’s screen time. Now, increasingly, it’s children who plead for their parents to put the phone down. Whether at the dinner table, playground, or during bedtime stories, the modern family dynamic is shifting — and not always for the better.

<h4>From Helicopter to Half-Present <span rel="noindex">Parenting</span></h4>

There’s a name for the phenomenon: “technoference.” Coined by researchers at the University of Wollongong, Australia, the term refers to digital distractions that interfere with family interactions. Their recent review of 21 studies — spanning 10 countries and nearly 15,000 participants — shows how significant this interference has become.

When parents frequently check phones or scroll through social media around young children, the impact can be deep and far-reaching. The review found consistent associations between parental phone use and weaker cognitive skills, more behavior problems, and greater screen dependency in kids. In other words, distracted parenting could be stunting a child’s emotional and intellectual growth.

“When parents frequently engage with screen-based devices in the presence of their children, the children’s efforts to interact or seek attention may be met with delayed, dismissive, shallow, or absent responses,” the researchers noted.

The data is alarming. According to the University of Wollongong study:

<ul><li>Over 70% of parents use their devices during meals or playtime.</li><li>89% check their phones at least once during parent-child interactions every day.</li></ul>

Children with such distracted caregivers are more likely to show anxiety, aggression, withdrawal, and attachment issues.

The issue goes beyond missing out on a moment — it may be shaping a child’s development in subtle but serious ways.

The generational shift is further emphasized by a Common Sense Media survey that highlights how teenagers are increasingly worried about their parents' screen habits — and are even pulling back themselves. According to the 2023 survey:

<ul><li>52% of parents felt they spent too much time on mobile devices (up from 27% in 2016).</li><li>Only 39% of teens felt the same (down from 61%).</li><li>45% of parents now say they feel “addicted” to their phones.</li></ul>

Interestingly, while mutual concern about screen time has grown, actual arguments about it have declined. Parents and teens are fighting less, even as both silently resent the other’s screen habits. As Michael Robb, senior research director at Common Sense Media, put it, “It’s a really weird finding.”

Beyond the cognitive and emotional toll on children, parents themselves are affected. Device use before bed, waking up to check phones, and constant alerts are interfering with adult sleep patterns, stress levels, and relationships — leading to a more disconnected home environment.

In experimental settings where researchers interrupted parent-child interactions with phone calls or messages, toddlers responded with visible distress — showing more negative emotions and trying harder to regain attention.

Experts aren’t asking parents to ditch tech altogether — rather, they recommend setting firm boundaries. This includes:

<ul><li>Device-free dinners</li><li>No phones during bedtime routines</li><li>Co-viewing digital content instead of isolating screen use</li><li>Creating “sacred spaces” (like bedrooms) where phones are off-limits</li></ul>

For families hoping to reconnect, these small steps can make a big difference. In a world of infinite scroll, a few uninterrupted minutes with your child could mean everything.

As tech continues to evolve, so must parenting. The challenge is not just managing our children’s screen time — but also managing our own.

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netflix parenting

netflix parents

Not too long ago, it was parents who sighed at their children’s screen time. Now, increasingly, it’s children who plead for their parents to put the phone down. Whether at the dinner table, playground, or during bedtime stories, the modern family dynamic is shifting — and not always for the better.From Helicopter to Half-Present ParentingThere’s a name for the phenomenon: “technoference.” Coined by researchers at the University of Wollongong, Australia, the term refers to digital distractions that interfere with family interactions. Their recent review of 21 studies — spanning 10 countries and nearly 15,000 participants — shows how significant this interference has become.When parents frequently check phones or scroll through social media around young children, the impact can be deep and far-reaching. The review found consistent associations between parental phone use and weaker cognitive skills, more behavior problems, and greater screen dependency in kids. In other words, distracted parenting could be stunting a child’s emotional and intellectual growth.“When parents frequently engage with screen-based devices in the presence of their children, the children’s efforts to interact or seek attention may be met with delayed, dismissive, shallow, or absent responses,” the researchers noted.The Numbers Behind the TrendThe data is alarming. According to the University of Wollongong study:Over 70% of parents use their devices during meals or playtime.89% check their phones at least once during parent-child interactions every day.Children with such distracted caregivers are more likely to show anxiety, aggression, withdrawal, and attachment issues.The issue goes beyond missing out on a moment — it may be shaping a child’s development in subtle but serious ways.A Role ReversalThe generational shift is further emphasized by a Common Sense Media survey that highlights how teenagers are increasingly worried about their parents' screen habits — and are even pulling back themselves. According to the 2023 survey:52% of parents felt they spent too much time on mobile devices (up from 27% in 2016).Only 39% of teens felt the same (down from 61%).45% of parents now say they feel “addicted” to their phones.Interestingly, while mutual concern about screen time has grown, actual arguments about it have declined. Parents and teens are fighting less, even as both silently resent the other’s screen habits. As Michael Robb, senior research director at Common Sense Media, put it, “It’s a really weird finding.”Why It MattersBeyond the cognitive and emotional toll on children, parents themselves are affected. Device use before bed, waking up to check phones, and constant alerts are interfering with adult sleep patterns, stress levels, and relationships — leading to a more disconnected home environment.In experimental settings where researchers interrupted parent-child interactions with phone calls or messages, toddlers responded with visible distress — showing more negative emotions and trying harder to regain attention.What Can Be Done?Experts aren’t asking parents to ditch tech altogether — rather, they recommend setting firm boundaries. This includes:Device-free dinnersNo phones during bedtime routinesCo-viewing digital content instead of isolating screen useCreating “sacred spaces” (like bedrooms) where phones are off-limitsFor families hoping to reconnect, these small steps can make a big difference. In a world of infinite scroll, a few uninterrupted minutes with your child could mean everything.As tech continues to evolve, so must parenting. The challenge is not just managing our children’s screen time — but also managing our own.

when the tables turn: how parental phone addiction is impacting kids and changing family dynamics

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