5 useful tips to protect a child from phone and gaming addiction
For many parents, handing their child a phone to keep them occupied is a common practice. However, psychologists and doctors strongly advise against such entertainment, constantly emphasizing the dangers of electronic media for children's mental and physical health.
SSPDaily writes: "As a result, a child may develop a dependence on gadgets. And the first sign of the problem will be constant tantrums associated with the deprivation of his phone."
Here are a few more symptoms of developing addiction that are important to recognize in time to prevent the situation from escalating to a critical point.
Educate your child about the dangers of phone addiction
Each time a child reaches for a smartphone, the temptation may be to snatch it away. However, refrain from doing so. Simply setting restrictions without explaining the reasons will not yield the desired result.
Tip: Before implementing rules for phone or electronic device usage, explain to your child, in a language they understand, the negative consequences of excessive screen time.
Prioritize physical playtime
Many modern parents struggle to find enough time to spend with their children. Nonetheless, it's crucial to make time for activities together. Engaging in physical play can divert your child's attention from being overly absorbed in their phone.
Tip: Play interactive games, read stories, or involve your child in household chores like cleaning, gardening, or cooking.
Set time limits
Establish a daily time limit for your child's smartphone usage. Discourage screen time during meals, school hours, or before bedtime. If you cannot monitor your child's usage constantly, consider setting up password protections.
Encourage non-screen-related activities
Promote activities that do not involve technology. Discuss your child's favorite TV shows, encouraging them to describe plots and characters. Extend the experience by engaging in imaginative play once screen time is over. Likewise, encourage face-to-face interactions rather than relying solely on video calls.
Lead by example
Discouraging excessive phone use in your child while being addicted to your own device is ineffective. Children learn by observing. Therefore, limit your own phone usage to set a positive example. If this isn't possible due to work obligations, explain to your child why you require frequent smartphone use.
