Screens become a go-to option for parents to keep children occupied

08:30

By: Sahili Aya

Screens become a go-to option for parents to keep children occupied

Many parents are increasingly turning to digital devices as a practical solution to keep their children entertained when other options are limited. According to a recent nationwide survey conducted by Ifop for the Fondation pour l'Enfance, screens are often used as a fallback — particularly when outdoor activities are not possible or when parents need time to focus on work or household responsibilities.

The survey, carried out online in December 2025 among a representative sample of parents with children aged 8 to 15, reveals that a significant majority regularly or occasionally allow their children to use digital tools at home. Bad weather, lack of structured activities, and professional obligations such as remote work are among the most cited reasons.

Public settings also play a role. Many parents report offering smartphones or tablets during travel, in restaurants, or while waiting in public spaces. For some, screens become a way to manage impatience or calm emotional outbursts, especially in environments where social pressure can heighten stress. Others acknowledge granting screen time as a reward for good behavior or academic achievement.

From the children’s perspective, boredom remains a key driver. More than half of young respondents admit they use screens primarily because they have nothing else to do. Despite this widespread reliance, nearly all parents say they have established at least one rule governing digital use — whether concerning time limits, permitted content, or specific moments of the day.

The publication of the survey comes amid renewed debate over children’s exposure to digital platforms. In France, President Emmanuel Macron has backed proposals to restrict access to social media for minors under 15, citing concerns about mental health, cyberbullying, exposure to inappropriate content, and sleep disruption.

A government-appointed expert panel — informally referred to as the “screens commission” — previously highlighted the lack of alternative activities in many public and waiting areas. In a 2024 report, it recommended installing play spaces in transport hubs, administrative offices, and other public venues to reduce dependence on digital entertainment.

As policymakers weigh stricter regulations and families seek balance, the survey underscores a broader societal challenge: reconciling the convenience of digital devices with the developmental needs of children in an increasingly connected world.