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Giving a child an iPad or smartphone to calm them down during a tantrum could stunt their development, scientists have warned.

Researchers found using the latest media as a calming tool prevents youngsters from developing their own methods of self-regulation.

Although e-books and learn to read apps can prove useful, they are wasted on children under two-and-a-half, and are most effective when used with parents, the study found.

Past research has found children under the age of 30 months cannot learn from television and videos as well as they can from real-life interactions.

A study by scientists at the University of Boston School of Medicine found using iPads and other electronic devices to placate a child during a tantrum could stunt development of empathy, social and problem solving skills typically obtained by exploring, unstructured play and interacting with their peers (file image)

But there are fewer studies investigating whether this is the case for interactive applications. 

Early research has found infants and toddlers learn best through hands-on and face-to-face experiences. 

Dr Jenny Radesky, clinical instructor in developmental behavioural paediatrics at Boston University School of Medicine, said: 'Mobile devices are everywhere and children are using them more frequently at young ages.

'The impact these mobile devices are having on the development and behaviour of children is still relatively unknown.

'It has been well-studied that increased television time decreases a child's development of language and social skills.

'Mobile media use similarly replaces the amount of time spent engaging in direct human-human interaction. 

'Heavy device use during young childhood could interfere with development of empathy, social and problem solving skills that are typically obtained by exploring, unstructured play and interacting with peers.

'These devices also may replace the hands-on activities important for the development of sensorimotor and visual-motor skills, which are important for the learning and application of maths and science.'

Recognising the value of learning apps, the study encourages parents to use them with their children to get the maximum benefits.  But researchers found these apps are wasted on children under the age of two

The researchers found that while mobile device use by children can provide an educational benefit, the use of these devices to distract children during mundane tasks may be detrimental to the social-emotional development of the child.

Dr Radesky added: 'If these devices become the predominant method to calm and distract young children, will they be able to develop their own internal mechanisms of self-regulation?'

While much remains unknown, the authors recommend that parents try each app before allowing their children to access it.

And parents are encouraged to use these apps with their children, with research suggesting using interactive media together enhances its educational value.  

Dr Radesky said: 'At this time, there are more questions than answers when it comes to mobile media.

'Until more is known about its impact on child development quality family time is encouraged, either through unplugged family time, or a designated family hour.'

Researchers reviewed the latest interactive media in a commentary for the journal Paediatrics.