Child psychology experts emphasize the importance of active parental involvement in young children’s development, cautioning against simply handing over digital devices to occupy them. They stress that engaging children in everyday activities can foster essential skills and social growth more effectively than screen time.

Assoc Prof Dr Fonny Dameaty Hutagalung from Universiti Malaya’s Faculty of Education highlighted various ways parents can nurture their children, suggesting practical activities such as accompanying them on errands, baking together, and involving them in simple household chores like putting away clothes, clearing toys, watering plants, and washing dishes. These tasks not only enhance fine motor skills but also provide opportunities for learning, such as counting objects during chores.

“While children are young, especially under seven, patience is key,” Fonny Dameaty said, noting the importance of managing expectations when teaching new skills. She also advocated for time spent outdoors, playing in natural environments and engaging with peers, recalling that such activities were more common before the widespread use of smartphones and had a positive impact on fine motor development.

From UCSI University, Assoc Prof Dr Saeid Motevalli urged parents to encourage activities that promote critical thinking and brain development, including writing in journals, mental arithmetic, note-taking, puzzles, and drawing. He highlighted that reducing device use during study periods can help maintain focus and prevent distractions, supporting better learning outcomes.

Fonny Dameaty further noted that active verbal engagement, such as speaking aloud while learning the alphabet, can aid memory retention by helping children visualize and reinforce the material through writing. Both experts agree that parents should not hesitate to limit their children’s device time if overuse becomes a concern.

“Do not be lazy and just hand them the phone,” Fonny Dameaty said, encouraging parents to share activities that create bonding experiences and foster social and independent skills. She emphasized that these moments will have lasting significance as children grow older.

In summary, experts call for parents to prioritize hands-on involvement and meaningful interactions over passive digital consumption in early childhood, promoting balanced development and stronger parent-child relationships.