In a world increasingly dominated by screens, one mother is making conscious choices about her daughter’s exposure to digital devices. Aliyah Norales, a 26-year-old stay-at-home mum and content creator, recently shared her approach to parenting on TikTok, where a video of her two-year-old daughter quietly engaging with her surroundings garnered widespread attention. The video initiated a dialogue among parents on the implications of screen time for children, sparking interest in more mindful technology habits.
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In the clip, which resonated with many, the text reads, “POV: I never did screen time in public, so this is my non-iPad kid while I fill out paperwork for my appointment.” Norales emphasises that her family is not entirely screen-free, but she chooses to restrict personal devices such as phones or tablets during outings. “We don’t give our daughter personal screens when we’re out,” she explains, stressing an intentional relationship with technology that differs significantly from the habitual reliance many families exhibit today.
Supporting her decision, Norales admits that while she and her husband enjoy watching films at home, these are experiences they cherish together as a family. “Film and television are a meaningful part of our family culture,” she shares. “I believe the value of screen time lies in how it’s consumed—when it’s intentional and shared, it fosters connection and imagination.” She is keen to ensure that screens do not simply serve as a quick fix for restlessness or moments of boredom.
Norales’ strategy to reduce reliance on devices includes actively engaging her daughter in their daily activities. “I’ve narrated our day to my daughter since she was born,” she states. This involves explaining her actions while running errands or attending appointments, inviting her child to observe and explore rather than resorting to a screen for entertainment. This approach has led to a more interactive and dynamic way of spending time together.
For Norales, this philosophy extends beyond her parenting practices. Recognising the demands of her content creation work, she strives to model healthier screen habits for her daughter. She often uses a device called a Brick to lock distracting applications, strategically minimising her own screen time. “If my daughter sees me filming or editing, I explain, ‘Mommy is working,’” she adds, illustrating her commitment to demonstrating a balanced relationship with technology.
Despite the challenges, including moments of envy towards parents who can easily occupy their children with devices, she remains steadfast in her commitment to this approach. “The difference is that it requires more work and intentionality on my end,” she admits. In practical situations, such as grocery shopping, she invites her daughter to assist in selecting items or engaging in conversation, emphasising the importance of keeping her child involved and aware of her surroundings.
Norales does not presume to lecture other parents on how to raise their children. Instead, she offers insights for those who might be interested in reducing screen time. Among her tips is the value of allowing children to experience boredom rather than immediately filling those moments with entertainment. “One small change I would suggest is welcoming boredom, not making screens the default option,” she advises.
Concluding, Norales highlights that she is on a learning journey alongside her daughter. The key for her family has been the commitment to slowing down, enjoying music, and cherishing the present moment together. She believes that fostering an active curiosity and independence in her child will ultimately lead to healthier habits, both for her daughter and herself. By resisting the urge to resort to screens for convenience, Aliyah Norales embodies a thoughtful approach to parenting in a rapidly digitising world, sparking meaningful conversations about technology use in modern childhood.