A Summer of Connections: Supporting Our Youngest Children

“As someone who has spent more than three decades walking alongside families from all walks of life—whether in their homes, classrooms, clinics, or communities—I have seen first-hand the pressures that modern life places on both parents and children. The truth is, our world is noisier than ever. The digital landscape has crept into nearly every corner of family life, often leaving less space for the kind of meaningful connection that children need to thrive.

What I’ve come to know through years of hands-on work is that parenting doesn’t require perfection—it requires presence. And presence comes from our choices. Every time we put the phone down, look into our child’s eyes, read their favourite book again (yes, again), or go on a walk simply to explore together, we are shaping their emotional world. These are the small but powerful actions that build trust, resilience, and joy.”

Jo Frost Global Parenting Expert & Childcare Specialist

“Childhood is a time where we need to learn social and emotional skills that we rely on for the rest of our lives. The ability to think creatively, manage boredom, soothe frustration as well stay focused on activities that don’t offer immediate rewards are all essential life skills but are harmed by excessive screen time.

“Screens are designed to grab and hold attention in order to maximise viewing time and this leads the brain to expect constant stimulation. Screen time is passive and not challenging, thus it feels easy. This makes activities that develop important life skills — waiting, turn taking, sharing and problem-solving—feel harder. It’s not about judging parents. It’s about understanding what’s happening and supporting change.”

Prof. Matthew Sadlier Consultant Psychiatrist, Associate Professor of Psychiatry 

“Children’s eyes are still growing. Lots of close-up screen time puts extra pressure on them.  Getting outside, looking into the distance, and playing in natural light helps protect their vision. It’s one of the best things you can do.

We must help families find a better balance—and that starts with awareness. Many parents don’t realise the long-term impact of screen habits that begin in the toddler years.

We need to champion the role of daylight, movement, and play—not because we expect perfection, but because small changes really do protect children’s vision. The cost of ignoring this now is measured not just in glasses, but in lifelong eye health problems and NHS strain.”

Daniel Hardiman-McCartney MBE, FCOptom, FRSA, Optometrist, Clinical Advisor, The College of Optometrists

“We all reach for our phones without thinking. It’s a part of modern life. But when we’re with our little ones, even small changes in how we use our phones can make a big difference. Children feel safest and happiest when they have our attention, our eye contact, and our presence. By putting our phones down, we can protect those everyday moments that matter most to them.”

Professor Caroline Fitzpatrick, PhD, The Digital Lab, University of Sherbrooke is a leading expert in how digital environments impact child development.

“Young children need to move every day. It’s vital for their physical health, their development, and their happiness. But when screens take over, kids sit still for too long, miss out on play, and can start gaining unhealthy weight. I always say: more green time, less screen time. That means more time outdoors, running, climbing, exploring, and far less time glued to a screen.”

Dr Sanjiv Nichani OBE, Senior Consultant Paediatrician, Leicester Childrens Hospital.

“Even among older children, we saw that less screen time before bed meant deeper, better-quality sleep. These findings matter just as much, if not more, for younger children. The early years are a critical time for brain development, learning, and emotional regulation. Helping little ones get consistent, restful sleep without the disruption of screens is one of the simplest and most powerful things a parent can do.”
Professor Lisa Henderson, from the Department of Psychology at the University of York, was one of the lead researchers behind the Channel 4 documentary Swiped – The School That Banned Smartphones.

“Screens talk at children. Real learning happens when someone talks with them. Face-to-face interaction is where language starts. Children need to connect and play with an engaged adult—not apps claiming to teach  them. From peekaboo to singing to silly chats in the supermarket, at bathtime or on bus rides, every small moment of interaction helps build your child’s brain.You don’t need flashcards or fancy activities. You just need real-life moments, face-to-face, and a chance for your child to listen to you and try out language.”

Sandy Chappell, Paediatric Speech & Language Therapist, BA (Hons), HCPC Reg. MRCSLT, MASLTIP

 “Reading is one of the most valuable and enriching activities a child can engage in. It stimulates imagination, strengthens literacy skills, broadens knowledge across a range of subjects, and supports mental and emotional regulation. Reading is versatile—it can be enjoyed at home, in the car, while waiting or needing to fill in time, and as a shared experience with others. Children are more likely to develop a love of reading when they see it modelled by their parents. As Dr. Seuss aptly stated: “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”

Dr Grace Hancock, Clinical Psychologist