If your child is spending more time on screens at school — even during lunch — you may be wondering what that means for their social development, attention, and overall well-being. For many parents, it can feel unsettling, confusing, and hard to know whether to be concerned or not.
In this episode of The Child Psych Podcast, Tania Johnson and Tammy Schamuhn explore the growing trend of children watching screens during lunchtime at school — and what may be lost when these everyday moments of connection are replaced with passive screen time.
Together, they unpack how screen use during school impacts social skills, peer relationships, emotional regulation in children, and nervous system health. Because lunchtime isn’t just a break to eat — it’s a critical window for conversation, co-regulation, play, and building a sense of belonging.
As psychologists, play therapists, and moms, Tammy and Tania also bring deep empathy for educators who are navigating real challenges like large class sizes, limited support, and time constraints. This is not about blame — it’s about awareness and small, meaningful shifts that can better support children’s development.
• How screen time during school lunch affects social connection and peer relationships
• Why unstructured social time is essential for child development
• The impact of screens on attention, behavior, and emotional regulation
• How to approach conversations with schools about screen use
• Practical ways to support healthier screen habits at home and at school
In a world where screens are becoming more integrated into children’s daily lives, it can be hard to know where to draw the line. This episode offers clarity, compassion, and research-informed guidance to help you make thoughtful decisions and advocate for your child’s needs.
For our dinnertime Conversation Starters, click here
","author_name":"Institute of Child Psychology"}