Why I Eliminated Electronics for My 3-Year-Old.

Have you ever seen a young child completely absorbed by a screen? It’s everywhere—whether you’re at a restaurant, on a long car ride, or even in the grocery store. Wherever you find children, chances are you’ll also see one holding an electronic device. Screens have become the go-to tool for calming tantrums, keeping little ones occupied, or, as many of us admit, acting as a modern-day babysitter.

I was no different. Like many parents, I allowed my child to watch TV after a long, tiring day. I told myself, “It’s just 30 minutes, no big deal.” But, inevitably, 30 minutes turned into an hour, then two. Sound familiar? If you’re a parent, you know how it goes. We all need a moment to cook dinner, take a shower, or manage the ever-growing pile of laundry. Having a toddler sit quietly in front of the TV feels like a lifesaver.

But what is the true cost of this convenience?

The Reality Check: Why Young Children and Screens Don’t Mix

Here’s the hard truth: young children are not wired for prolonged screen time. Their growing minds and bodies thrive on movement, exploration, and real-world interaction. A wealth of research shows that excessive screen time can negatively affect everything from their physical development to cognitive abilities—and that was the wake-up call for me.

1. Physical Development

Children under five are in a crucial phase of building motor skills. At this age, movement is not just about burning off energy—it’s essential for brain development and motor coordination. When kids spend hours in front of screens, they miss out on activities that strengthen their bodies. In contrast, outdoor play supports gross motor skills, balance, and coordination—skills a screen can never provide.

2. Cognitive Development

The early years are critical for brain growth. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has long warned that too much screen time before the age of five can delay language development and impact attention span. Real-world stimuli, like nature walks, hands-on play, and face-to-face interactions, nurture creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking—something passive screen-watching just can’t do.

3. Emotional and Social Development

Screens don’t just affect the body and brain—they can also hinder emotional and social growth. Kids learn to navigate their feelings, develop empathy, and read social cues by interacting with others. When they’re glued to a device, they miss out on these vital experiences. Outdoor play, on the other hand, encourages collaboration, teamwork, and emotional resilience.

The Shift to Outdoor Play—and Its Surprising Benefits

When I decided to cut out electronics for my 3-year-old, I replaced screen time with something more valuable: outdoor play. The change was immediate and remarkable. My child became more physically active and curious about the world. Outdoor play unleashed their imagination, and I noticed a boost in mood and behavior.

There was another unexpected perk—social interaction. Playing outside meant engaging with other children, which naturally improved social skills. The fresh air and physical activity didn’t just tire them out (hello, better sleep!) but also had a calming effect. Most importantly, my child became more present, more in tune with the world around them—something screens had dulled.

The Challenge—and the Reward

Let’s be honest: cutting out screen time is not easy. In a world where technology is everywhere, it’s tempting to lean on screens for a break. But here’s what I’ve learned—the rewards far outweigh the challenge.

If you’re struggling to manage without screens, there are other options. You can hire a neighborhood teenager as a “mother’s helper” for an hour or two when you need to get things done around the house. Think of it as an investment in your child’s development—and trust me, you’ll see the payoff sooner than you think.

Is It Really Worth It?

I get it—sometimes the easiest option is reaching for that tablet or remote, especially when we’re tired. But here’s the thing: the benefits of reducing or eliminating screen time far exceed the temporary peace a screen offers. By cutting out electronics, I’ve made a conscious decision to prioritize my child’s well-being—and the results have been nothing short of transformative.

So, next time you’re tempted to hand over a device, consider this: the best things for your child’s development might not be found on a screen, but in the great outdoors.