A Straits Times article explored why young children have public meltdowns when screen time ends and how parents can respond.

Experts note that digital content strongly stimulates the brain’s reward system, creating a dopamine “high”. When the device is taken away, the drop in dopamine, combined with young children’s still-developing ability to regulate emotions, can trigger strong reactions.

Parents are encouraged to set clear and consistent screen-time boundaries, give advance warnings, and use timers or visual cues to signal when time is up. Coreen Soh, Chief Child Development and Support Officer at NTUC First Campus, shared that visual cues are especially helpful for younger children who may not yet understand the concept of time, and that children are less likely to react strongly when expectations are agreed upon beforehand.

When meltdowns occur in public, Coreen advised parents to stay calm and avoid turning the situation into a power struggle or shaming the child. Instead, parents should acknowledge the child’s emotions while remaining firm about the rules, as returning the device to stop the crying may reinforce the behaviour. She also encouraged parents to involve children in setting screen-time rules and choosing alternative activities such as books or toys. Over time, helping children recognise their emotions and understand boundaries can support the development of self-control.

Over time, helping children recognise their emotions, anticipate transitions, and understand boundaries can support the development of self-control and healthier screen habits.

Media coverage:

Straits Times Online (16 March 2026)

Straits Times Print (17 March 2026)