An elderly Chinese man placed a plastic dog collar around his five year old grandson’s neck to curb his mobile phone usage during a family car trip. The scene was reported by the South China Morning Post as a focal point for broader concerns about how screens affect children.”
In Xi’an, a father noticed his grandchild spending long hours playing mobile games while on the road. He responded by fastening a veterinary collar around the child, restricting access to the device the child loved so much. The action was intended to limit screen time, but it quickly drew attention for its method and implications.
Initially, the child resisted because the collar reminded him of a dog and he could not immediately understand why this restraint was necessary. After a couple of days, his behavior began to change. The child showed less impulse to pick up the phone and his parents said the device was no longer used in the same way. The mother who spoke to the press stressed that the collar was bought specifically for this purpose and was not intended for ongoing use. She also noted that the video showing the child wearing the collar had sparked intense online discussions.
Respondents online criticized the approach as sensational and impractical. One observer argued that to grab children’s attention away from their phones, caregivers should seek engagement rather than coercion. The debate touched on how families balance digital life with daily safety and social norms, especially on long trips where screen time can feel like a tempting retreat for a restless child.
Another thread in the conversation referenced broader research about smartphone use and mental health. It was noted that excessive screen time among young people correlates with higher rates of depression and anxiety, a pattern researchers have observed in various studies. Experts emphasized that healthier strategies might include structured routines, active breaks during travel, and open dialogue about screen habits instead of punitive measures.
The incident has prompted a wider discussion about child welfare, discipline, and the role of technology in family life. Some readers argued that results matter more than methods, insisting that any plan to reduce screen time should consider the child’s well being, emotional needs, and development. Others cautioned against normalizing extreme punishments or public demonstrations that could set a troubling example for others. Counselors and educators alike called for balanced approaches that respect children’s autonomy while teaching healthy digital habits.
Ultimately, the incident illustrates the growing tension between technology’s pull and the desire to protect children from its potential harms. Families increasingly seek practical, compassionate solutions—such as digital curfews, device-free zones, and collaborative goal-setting—that reduce dependency without resorting to punishment. The evolving conversation about screen time highlights the importance of empathy, clear communication, and evidence-based strategies in guiding young people toward healthier, more mindful technology use.
As communities continue to reflect on this episode, the conversation remains central to how societies in Canada and the United States approach digital wellbeing. The ongoing research into screen time, child development, and mental health will help shape recommendations for parents, caregivers, and schools alike, ensuring that the welfare of children remains the primary priority while acknowledging the realities of modern digital life.