Beyond “Screen Addiction”. What Is the Screen Doing for the Child? Understanding the Need Behind iPads

 

 

 

 

 

Bee Ready Series - Behaviour

Beyond “Screen Addiction”. What Is the Screen Doing for the Child? Understanding the Need Behind iPads

Webinar Description

“He’s addicted to his iPad.” “She can’t cope without the tablet.”

These are increasingly common concerns in schools and homes. But is every child who strongly seeks a screen actually “addicted” to it? This webinar moves beyond the label of screen addiction and explores the real ‘’why’’ behind it.

For some children, an iPad, game or video may offer far more than entertainment. It might provide predictability, emotional regulation, sensory input, escape from overwhelming demands, social connection, competence, autonomy or a feeling of control. Removing the device without understanding its function can therefore remove a child's coping strategy without replacing what that strategy was providing.

During this practical webinar, SNAs and educators will explore why particular children may become highly attached to digital devices, how to distinguish preferred use, regulation-seeking and genuinely problematic use, and what behaviour around screens may be communicating. The session will consider practical strategies for transitions away from screens, building alternative regulation opportunities, supporting flexibility and widening a child's repertoire of enjoyable and meaningful activities - without shame, punishment or unnecessary power struggles.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:

1. Distinguish between high screen use and problematic media use.
2. Identify the possible needs behind a child's strong preference for screens.
3. Look beyond the behaviour using a function-based approach.
4. Use practical, low-conflict strategies to support healthier digital-media use.

Facilitator: Magdalena Landziak

Magdalena is an advocate for special and inclusive education and an experienced SNA, with over 10 years of experience supporting children with additional needs in primary school settings. She works as a tutor delivering QQI Level 6 SNA courses and provides CPD training for various Education Centres across Ireland. Recognising the need for ongoing, tailored support for SNAs, Magdalena founded SNA Academy to deliver practical, research-informed training and resources. She is also the Editor of AMYGDALA - the First National Magazine for SNAs, sharing insights, strategies, and inspiration to enhance inclusive practice in schools. Recently, she launched her own podcast, From the Bottom of My Heart, creating a space for meaningful conversations, inspiring stories and diverse perspectives on education, inclusion, wellbeing and life experiences. Magdalena holds a Master’s degree in Inclusive Education and SEN, as well as a Postgraduate Certificate (level 9) in 21st Century Teaching and Learning from Trinity College Dublin. She is passionate about supporting children with additional needs and equally dedicated to sharing her knowledge, experience and practical strategies with SNAs and educators to promote meaningful inclusion and strengthen everyday practice. Through her social media platform, @sna_zone, she shares practical strategies, educational resources, professional insights and inspiration to support SNAs and educators in their everyday practice.