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Parenting a Toddler in the Era of Pervasive Screens: Interviews with Low-Income Mexican American Parents

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  • Darcy A. Thompson

    (Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12631 East 17th Ave., Aurora, CO 80045, USA
    Adult and Child Center for Health Outcomes Research and Delivery Science, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 1890 N Revere Ct, Aurora, CO 80045, USA)

  • Andrea M. Jimenez-Zambrano

    (Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12631 East 17th Ave., Aurora, CO 80045, USA
    Adult and Child Center for Health Outcomes Research and Delivery Science, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 1890 N Revere Ct, Aurora, CO 80045, USA)

  • Haley Ringwood

    (Denver Health and Hospital Authority, 777 Bannock Street, Denver, CO 80204, USA
    Department of Family Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12631 East 17th Ave., Aurora, CO 80045, USA)

  • Jeanne M. Tschann

    (Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA)

  • Lauren Clark

    (School of Nursing, University of California, 700 Tiverton Avenue, Factor Building, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA)

Abstract

Screen media use starts in early childhood, despite recommendations to limit use. This study explored low-income Mexican American mothers’ and fathers’ beliefs, parenting practices, and perceived contextual contributors related to toddler screen use. We conducted interviews with 32 low-income Mexican American parents. Transcripts of audio recordings were analyzed to identify themes. Parents perceived numerous benefits to screen use, including learning and enjoyment, as well as seeing it as a helpful tool for parents. Reported risks included harmful mental and physical effects and a risk of use being all-consuming. Parents managed screen use with a variety of practices, including giving close attention to content, monitoring duration, and engaging in co-use. They also used screens for behavior management and in specific situations, such as to prepare for sleep. Some differences in beliefs and parenting practices exist by screen device type. Parents also reported that contextual factors, such as weather and neighborhood safety, influenced screen use. This study extends the current literature regarding child screen use, with its focus on low-income Mexican American toddlers. The findings offer interventionists and providers insight into the management of screens in the lives of this population.

Suggested Citation

  • Darcy A. Thompson & Andrea M. Jimenez-Zambrano & Haley Ringwood & Jeanne M. Tschann & Lauren Clark, 2023. "Parenting a Toddler in the Era of Pervasive Screens: Interviews with Low-Income Mexican American Parents," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(8), pages 1-16, April.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:20:y:2023:i:8:p:5461-:d:1120659
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    References listed on IDEAS

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