How to overcome gadget addiction in children: advice from experts

The world of smartphones and tablets surrounds children from an early age. Online lessons, games and instant messaging have become commonplace, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, when, according to Kaiser Permanente researchers, the average screen time for children has increased by almost two hours per day. But when a beloved tablet becomes the center of a child’s life, it can have serious consequences.

Why do gadgets drag on?

Most apps are designed to keep a young user’s attention for as long as possible: colorful animations, instant “rewards” and an endless stream of new content stimulate the brain and cause “dopamine hunger”. During the pandemic, many children practically lived online, which conveniently replaced real communication and activity. However, a long time in front of screens leads to reduced attention, difficulty sleeping, vision problems, obesity and even depression. Do not forget about online security threats: strangers in chats, fraudulent offers or unwanted content.

How to understand that a child has a problem (gadget addiction)?

Signs of gadget addiction include: unwillingness to look away from the screen, aggression or tantrums when the device is taken away, withdrawal, loss of interest in active games, constant fatigue or sleep disturbances. It is important not to blame the child or yell - addiction often means that the child lacks attention, interesting activities or live communication.

Tips on how to restore balance

• Set rules together . Children need clear boundaries. Set when and how much time they can spend on their gadgets, what apps are allowed and what aren’t. Let your child participate in creating a “screen contract” on their own – this way they will feel responsible.

• Introduce alternatives . Instead of just taking away the tablet, offer something interesting: board games, drawing, construction toys, sports, or walks. Prepare a “boredom box” - a set of creative materials and activities that your child can turn to when they are bored.

• Follow sleep hygiene and health . In the evening, put away gadgets at least an hour before bedtime, use the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at an object 6 meters away for 20 seconds, blink 20 times), take care of proper posture and take regular walks.

• Talk about safety . Explain that there are scammers and unwanted content on the Internet. Set up parental controls and set up privacy on social media.

• Be an example . Children imitate adults. If parents do not look away from their smartphones in the evenings, demanding that the child read books is ineffective. Your own digital discipline is the best proof of the seriousness of the rules.
  

A positive approach instead of prohibitions

Banning gadgets altogether is not an option. They help with learning, development, and creativity. It is important to teach your child to use technology responsibly: to interact with friends in chat rooms, to learn new things, but also to know how to turn off the screen. This way you will form a healthy relationship with the digital world.

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