When handheld tech devices are given to children, parents and caretakers must be prepared with a clear boundary concerning the use of technology. We understand that games and apps are designed in such a way to keep users attached and interested. But, on the flip side, there are chances that this can cause a certain kind of internet addiction in your children.
We all know that this life is full of good and bad things. Similarly, the internet also holds its advantages and disadvantages. It is our conscious feeling, as parents, to make sure that our children have access to the internet for a limited period. We have presented some of the signs that could signal an internet addiction in kids. Please take a brief look at it.
Parents must lookout for the following signs:
- Increasing use of the device may drive them away from being social.
- Frequent requests to use the device, suppose said no, resulting in temper tantrums.
- Disengagement from certain activities.
- Children insist on going home and using the device and refusing to perform day-to-day activities, such as going to sleep on time.
- You can find Excessive preoccupation with certain characters in video games, movies, and TV shows.
5 Tips To Prevent Addiction:
1. Limiting the use of the device
Slowly and steadily, start cutting down the screen time for your children. They might get cranky at the start, but remember, this is for their best: Limit TV, computers, mobile devices to 30 minutes. Also, ensure that the total screen time does not exceed the age-group recommendations.
2. Playing Physical Activities
Now, as you have already scheduled the screen time for your kid, how about some quality time with them? Come up with indoor and outdoor games that interest them and play along with them. It will increase the bond with your child as well. You can also make a timetable for your kid to follow where you put all their day-to-day activities.
3. Learning An Extra Activity
It is one of the intelligent ways to keep your child busy and away from the phone. Enrolling them in a summer camp or any extracurricular activity will keep them distracted and also help them sharpen their minds. It can be singing, dancing, karate, drawing, and more.
4. Taking Them For An Outing
As we discussed earlier, there are chances that your toddler might lose social engagement. In this case, it is essential for you, as a parent, to gain their social confidence back. An outing in a public park with the child surrounded by his friends will help him start a conversation. They will gradually begin engaging with all their hearts and forget the devices if they perform this activity regularly.
5. Watching Good Shows Together/ Playing Video Games Together
Also read Why is it Important to Spend Alone Time with Your Kids
How about you and your child watch some good TV shows and movies or play video games together? This way, everything will happen in your presence, and you will hold control of the remote. This way, your children will know what is good content and what is not.
These are some of the tips to prevent your children from internet addiction. Take these into consideration, and we are sure that you will see a noticeable difference in them.
Read Importance of Spending Alone Time With Your Kids
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Team SOROR
( Singapore )