Editorial. Children and screens: imperfect parents desperately seek tolerance

Yes, many of us are imperfect parents. We yell sometimes when all we need to do is explain. We give in, from time to time, to pizza or fast food. And then, we whisper in our mouths, we sometimes allow our offspring to watch a video. To hang out the laundry. To take care of their big brother. Or simply to take a breather.

Yet we know it, and it is an absolute truth that there is no question of questioning here: screens, a multigenerational drug being dealt openly , constitute a danger. Scientists are categorical: risks of language delay, attention disorders, even obesity can be all consequences of the unbridled exposure of children to this millennial scourge. This led the Minister of Health and Families, Catherine Vautrin , to announce last Sunday the imminent publication of a decree banning the exposure of children to any screen until the age of 3 "everywhere, including at home." Let us reassure ourselves, however, "the authorities will not be at people's homes to check." Phew.

To encourage demographic "rearmament" (the conception of said babies in front of the TV not yet being referenced as a risk factor), it is not certain, however, that pointing the finger at parents in this way constitutes the best encouragement. Because, in the lives of many, it is very difficult to achieve the perfection demanded.

Lucky are those who can, 24/7, play board games, read stories, and have "gouzis-gouzis" sessions non-stop. The others are reduced to doing what they can. And don't be ashamed: they often do it very well. Even if it means letting their offspring watch, at a reasonable pace of course, T'choupi riding his red bike or kicking a ball at Pilou and Lalou's house. Ultimately, being a parent is first and foremost about love. With or without pixels.