The use of screens to entertain children in public spaces, particularly restaurants, is sparking fresh debate among parents and experts, as new research sheds light on the nuanced role of digital devices in family life. A widely-shared recent opinion article—“I let my children watch screens in restaurants – don’t lecture me if you don’t have kids”—has ignited conversations both online and offline, reflecting shifting attitudes and growing scientific interest in how screens are woven into everyday parenting choices, especially in situations that call for calm and cooperation.
The issue is highly relevant for Thai parents as family restaurant outings become increasingly common in urban areas like Bangkok, where space and time constraints often mean families eat out rather than at home. Amid these settings, parents face the challenging task of keeping their children entertained, quiet, and well-behaved, not just for their own peace but to maintain the overall dining atmosphere. While some onlookers criticize the sight of young children immersed in tablets or smartphones at the table, many parents say that judgements seldom take into account the complexities of parenting or the stressors unique to modern family life.
Recent scientific studies provide important context to this debate. A 2023 review published in the journal Pediatrics highlights that, while excessive or unsupervised screen time is linked to sleep disruption and behavioral issues, short, supervised digital sessions—such as during meals at restaurants—may help parents manage stress and support positive social interactions in non-home environments (Pediatrics). Notably, the study points out that the real concern is less about occasional screen use—especially in public or special circumstances—and more about cumulative screen time, content quality, and the absence of parental engagement.
A senior researcher in child development at Bangkok’s leading children’s hospital noted, “Many Thai parents worry about public perception when their children use screens in restaurants, but the reality is that judicious use can help families enjoy meals together, prevent outbursts, and reduce stress—if managed with reasonable boundaries.” This view is echoed in the wider parenting discourse, as reflected in the Telegraph article: Many parents argue that unless one has direct caregiving experience, it is unfair to make sweeping judgments or prescribe rigid rules (The Telegraph).
The practice is not unique to Thailand, yet it resonates in the local context where cultural norms emphasize family harmony and respect for elders and other diners. It is not uncommon to see grandparents—steeped in more traditional views—object to screens at the table, but even among older generations, attitudes are slowly softening. A survey by a Thai family research institute in 2024 indicated that over half of urban Thai parents allow some form of digital distraction in restaurants, with many citing “public embarrassment” and “pressure to control behavior” as key reasons. The same study reported that most parents set time limits and carefully curate program content.
Restaurants, too, are adapting. Some family-friendly venues now offer designated play areas or kid-oriented menus that include tablet rentals, recognizing the practical needs of today’s parents. A manager at a popular Bangkok restaurant chain explained, “Thai families want to enjoy meals out together. If a little screen time helps everyone—parents, children, other guests—to have a pleasant experience, we see that as a positive development.” Still, some establishments request moderation, especially during traditional or formal occasions, reflecting a balance between accommodating modern parenting and honoring cultural customs.
From a health perspective, experts urge Thai parents to apply common sense and context. International guidelines—such as those from the World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics—recommend that children aged 2-5 should have no more than one hour of quality screen time a day, ideally co-viewed with a caregiver (WHO Screen Time Guidelines). For older children, the focus shifts to balancing digital and offline activities, fostering critical media literacy, and ensuring exposure to a variety of experiences.
A paediatric psychologist at a leading Thai university hospital summarized, “The important thing is how screens are used—are they a tool for temporary calm, or a constant crutch? Context, content, and conversation are key. Rather than judging parents for every moment of screen use, society should support families with realistic, culturally-sensitive advice.”
In practical terms, Thai families can take simple steps to keep screen use in check at restaurants: agree on limits in advance, turn on subtitles, choose educational or calming programs, and put devices away when food arrives. For those worried about negative comments, expert advice is clear—every family’s reality is different, and occasional screen use at the table does not doom children’s social development or family bonds.
As dining habits and technology continue to evolve in Thailand, the conversation about children’s screens in restaurants is likely to remain lively. Parents, educators, and health specialists agree: open, judgment-free discussion and balanced, evidence-based advice will best support Thai families seeking harmony in public spaces and at the table.