Screens at 2 Years Old: Impact on Child Behaviour

Nowadays it is almost impossible to completely avoid contact with screens. But when we talk about children around 2 years old, even "reduced" use can have an impact on behaviour. If you have noticed more irritability, difficulty managing frustration, or changes in sleep, it may not be a coincidence.

The brain at 2 years old: a sensitive phase

Between 0 and 3 years old, the brain is in one of its most intense periods of development. Everything the child experiences contributes to how they regulate emotions, develop language, and build attention. The Montessori method deeply values real, concrete, and sensory experiences — and this is where screens pose a challenge.

Why even a short screen time can impact behaviour

Screens offer fast and constant stimulation, intense colours, and immediate responses without effort from the child. For a developing brain, this creates a "mismatch" when returning to real life. As a result, it is common to observe:

• Lower frustration tolerance
• Greater irritability
• Difficulty maintaining focus on simple activities
• Less interest in free play

Simple alternatives for daily life

Moments of connection

Reading a book together, cooking, or simply observing what is happening around you are very rich experiences for the baby.

Simple activities

Boxes with everyday objects, puzzles, or sensory activities are great alternatives.

Valuing boredom

Boredom is often the beginning of creativity.

The approach at Alora

At Alora Montessori, we choose not to use screens in our space. It is not about completely eliminating screens from modern life, but about making conscious choices during such a sensitive phase of development.