Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield and his wife Emily welcomed their daughter, Kova Jade, in April 2024. The couple has openly shared moments of their family life on Instagram, giving fans insight into how they are raising their one-year-old. Central to their parenting style is the conscious decision to avoid any screen time for Kova, a choice that sets them apart in an era where young children are often exposed to digital devices early on. Instead, Kova enjoys watching photos cycle through on a digital picture frame, which serves as her version of television and helps her connect with family members.
Emily Mayfield explained this unique approach by saying,
“We don’t do screentime yet, but she loves this. And now she points to us in the pictures and will say ‘Mama, Dad, or Bubba (Ferg).”
-Emily Mayfield shared on her Instagram Story
Why the Mayfields Avoid Screens for Their Toddler
Emily’s choice to keep screens away from Kova comes amid growing concerns about early childhood exposure to television, tablets, and smartphones. Many experts warn that excessive screen time at a young age may hinder developmental progress, particularly in areas such as social skills and attention span. The Mayfields’ method of using a digital photo frame provides a gentle, interactive alternative that encourages Kova to recognize family members and engage with her surroundings without the risks tied to screens. This parenting strategy highlights their intent to foster a screen-free environment for their daughter’s early growth.
Emily Mayfield Celebrates Mother’s Day with Heartfelt Reflections
This year, Emily marked her second Mother’s Day by sharing an emotional message on Instagram, describing motherhood as her most treasured role. She reflected on the journey of raising Kova, while also thanking their dog Fergus for being a welcoming “first baby” before the arrival of their daughter. Emily praised Baker for being an exceptional partner through the challenges and joys of parenthood.
In her own words, Emily shared,
“My most prized role in the universe- “Mom”. Thank you Jesus for trusting me to raise this baby girl. Thank you Fergus for being my most perfect first baby & allowing me to dip my toes into motherhood.
“Thank you Koko for making me a mama & taking it so easy on me. And thank you, Baker, for being my partner in this wild ride. There’s no one better. I’m the luckiest girl alive & I am beyond thankful.”
The Family’s Journey Together
Baker and Emily Mayfield’s relationship began in 2017 after being introduced by a mutual friend. Their connection quickly deepened, leading to an engagement just six months later. They married in June 2019 in Malibu, California, and since then, the couple has embraced family life while Baker continues his professional career as an NFL quarterback. Their focus on nurturing their daughter without screen distractions underscores their dedication to creating a mindful and loving environment.
What This Means for Parenting Trends in Sports Families
The Mayfields’ decision to avoid screen time for Kova offers a glimpse into modern parenting styles that prioritize developmental health over convenience. As a high-profile sports family, their approach may influence other parents looking for ways to balance technology with hands-on nurturing. With increasing attention on how early childhood habits shape the future, the Mayfields exemplify a hopeful and intentional path in raising children amid today’s digital world. Observers will likely be interested in how Kova’s growth unfolds without traditional screen exposure and how that might inform similar choices for other families.