The TV is also bad, but smartphones are literally slot machines in the child's pocket that keep giving them dopamine hits. It's many times worse for the brain.
There are parental controls etc. But the nature of the device is addictive with its notifications and the likes.
More and more governments issue warning about the effects of screens on baby, toddler, and child brain development. The age the Netherlands puts forward now is 14 to have a smartphone, and no screens or very limited until 3 years of age.
The TV is also bad, but smartphones are literally slot machines in the child's pocket that keep giving them dopamine hits. It's many times worse for the brain.
There are parental controls etc. But the nature of the device is addictive with its notifications and the likes.