Pediatricians warn against using mobile phones as child pacifiers

Prominent pediatricians Dr. Ravi Malik and Dr. Madhvi Bhardwaj addressed concerns about children's health and digital dependency during a dedicated session at the HealthWealth Summit 2026, titled 'Keeping Children Healthy.' The specialists engaged in an open discussion about the multifaceted challenges facing Indian children today, including recurring viral infections, excessive screen exposure, and parenting practices that may inadvertently harm development.

The doctors emphasized that using mobile phones and tablets as substitutes for parental engagement poses significant risks to children's physical and mental well-being. They highlighted that the practice of handing devices to children to keep them occupied can contribute to behavioral issues, attention disorders, and reduced social interaction at critical developmental stages.

Addressing nutritional concerns, the specialists warned against force-feeding children, a common practice in many Indian households. They explained that coercing children to consume food can create unhealthy relationships with eating and lead to digestive and psychological issues. Instead, experts advocated for establishing healthy eating habits through positive reinforcement and age-appropriate guidance.

The session underscored the need for balanced parenting strategies that combine digital literacy with controlled screen time, proper nutrition, and meaningful parent-child interaction. Both doctors stressed that preventive measures and awareness among caregivers are essential to reducing the incidence of lifestyle-related health problems in children and building a healthier generation.