Turning Off Tablets During Mealtime

CLEVELAND - Whether it’s in the morning as you’re getting ready for work or after a long day, it can be tempting to let kids watch TV or play on their tablet while they’re eating.

But that habit could hurt them in the long run.

“I know that families are so busy and it's oftentimes easy for parents to say, okay, just sit down and watch something so you can eat quietly while mom or dad can get something accomplished,” said Margherita Shook, RD, registered dietitian at Cleveland Clinic Children’s. “But eating while distracted really does not help kids learn hunger cues because when they're distracted, they're focused on the tablet and they're just putting food in their mouth.”

Shook said without screens, kids have an easier time learning about what’s on their plate, how it tastes and smells, and deciding whether they’re truly hungry.

Plus, there’s communication happening.

For example, they get to talk with their parents or siblings.

She said if you have been letting your child use their tablet during mealtime, it’s never too late to break the habit.

You don’t have to go cold turkey, either.

Instead, just continue to reduce their screen time each day.

“Take it one day at a time. It's progress, not perfection. You just want to do what's best for you and the day-to-day routine. And it's slow and steady. Once your children get used to eating without the tablet, it will be just part of your routine like anything else. But like I said, it doesn't have to be perfect seven days out of the week, 365 days a year. As long as you're working on most days without the tablet, that's a big win,” she said. 

Shook said if your child continues to struggle with screentime while eating, you may want to talk with their pediatrician.