Breastfeeding is not merely a way to fill a baby's tummy; it is a beautiful and magical bonding time between mother and child. However, in today's digital age, this precious time is being overshadowed by a new phenomenon experts call "Brexting" (texting while breastfeeding). When a mother remains engrossed in chatting or scrolling on a screen instead of focusing entirely on her baby during feeding, it can have several adverse effects on the child's development. This habit deprives the baby of the special affection and attention from the mother that is crucial for brain development. So, how exactly does "Brexting" affect your child, and what is the best way to avoid it?

Mothers often feel that since the baby is tiny and simply feeding, there is no harm in scrolling through social media or watching Reels. However, according to doctors and experts, this seemingly innocent oversight can have lasting impacts on your child's mental and social development. Gynecologist and laparoscopic surgeon Dr. Akanksha Srivastava shared vital information on Instagram explaining why it is essential to stay away from mobile phones while breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding is a means of emotional connection, not just nourishment—
According to Dr. Akanksha Srivastava, breastfeeding is not just about the baby's physical nutrition. It is a special time when the strongest emotional and mental bond is forged between the mother and her newborn. When a mother holds her baby close to nurse, an unspoken communication takes place between them.

However, when the mother's gaze is fixed on a mobile screen rather than on the baby, the child misses out on that affection, empathy, and eye-to-eye contact. This emotional distance can severely impact the child's early development.

How do smartphones hinder a child's brain development? When you are engrossed in a screen while feeding your baby, it directly impacts the child's mental health and behavior. This can lead to several serious neuropsychological and behavioral issues:

Impaired Communication and Social Skills:
A child's early social and linguistic development stems from interacting with the mother and observing her facial expressions. When interaction and eye contact are reduced, the child's social development can be stunted.

Behavioral Changes and Anxiety:
Children who miss out on the mother's touch and affectionate gaze during feeding may later exhibit behavioral problems such as irritability, stubbornness, and anxiety.

Memory and Cognitive Weakness:
According to doctors, a mother's divided attention affects the child's neuropsychological growth, potentially weakening their memory and ability to concentrate.

Risk of Harmful Radiation:
Since a newborn's body and brain are extremely delicate, electromagnetic radiation emitted from a mobile phone while the baby is in the mother's lap can prove highly detrimental to their development.

What is the right and safe way to breastfeed?
If you wish to ensure a healthy and happy future for your baby, incorporate these doctor-recommended practices into your daily routine:

1. Practice a Digital Detox:
Keep your phone at least 5 to 6 feet away from you while breastfeeding. During this time, your undivided attention should be focused solely on your baby.

2. Eye Contact and Affectionate Touch:
Look into your baby's eyes while feeding, speak softly, sing lullabies, and stroke them gently. This physical contact provides the baby with a sense of security and comfort.

3. Choose a Calm Environment:
Select a quiet corner or room in your home free from the noise of televisions or mobile phones. Feed your baby with a calm mind and without any stress.

4. Airplane mode for emergencies:
If it is absolutely essential to keep your phone nearby, switch it to silent or airplane mode to minimize the risk of radiation. Use the phone only when the baby is asleep.

A mother's lap is a child's first classroom and a protective shield. Do not sacrifice this precious time to screens. Mobile notifications can wait, but your child's brain development cannot be reclaimed once the opportunity is lost!

PC Social Media