It is often used by parents to keep their sanity intact and bored youngsters entertained.

But new research suggests using an electronic tablet as a calming tool during tantrums could actually stunt child development.

An article in medical journal Paediatrics claims devices like iPads may prevent youngsters from developing their own methods of self-regulation.

The research also shows there are still many unanswered questions on their overall impact on children.

Dr Jenny Radesky, of Boston University School of Medicine in the US, said: "Mobile devices are everywhere and children are using them more frequently at young ages. The impact these mobile devices are having on the development and behaviour of children is still relatively unknown.

"Heavy device use during young childhood could interfere with development of empathy, social and problem solving skills that are typically obtained by exploring, unstructured play and interacting with peers.

"These devices also may replace the hands-on activities important for the development of sensorimotor and visual-motor skills, which are important for the learning and application of maths and science."

Dr Radesky added: "If these devices become the predominant method to calm and distract young children, will they be able to develop their own internal mechanisms of self-regulation?"